Overview

• Russia conditions its compliance with the Black Sea ceasefire on lifting sanctions, including restoring access to the SWIFT system for Russian banks.
• Ukraine reports continued Russian attacks on energy infrastructure, contradicting Moscow's claim of halting such actions since March 18.
• US President Donald Trump acknowledges Russia may be deliberately delaying negotiations to gain strategic leverage, drawing criticism for pressuring Ukraine into concessions.
• European leaders, including Emmanuel Macron, call for unconditional Russian adherence to the ceasefire, emphasizing that sanctions will not be lifted without a full withdrawal from Ukraine.
• Analysts warn the agreement disproportionately benefits Russia, offering potential sanctions relief while requiring minimal concessions, risking prolonged instability.