Russia’s ceasefire conditions include lifting some EU sanctions — Rubio

He added that following talks in Saudi Arabia on March 23-25, the White House received “a more detailed definition of what a ceasefire in terms of energy infrastructure would entail.”

“In addition, we received a concept for a ceasefire in the Black Sea,” Rubio said at a press conference in Jamaica.

“As usual, after our meeting the Russians clarified certain conditions in their release that they insist on meeting in order to achieve a ceasefire. We will assess these conditions—some of which include sanctions that are not ours; they are EU sanctions.” 

He stated that once the U.S. delegation returns from Saudi Arabia, the United States “will have a clearer understanding of Russia’s position.”

“They [the U.S. delegation] will present this to the president [Donald Trump], and the next steps will be decided,” the secretary said.

“Of course, it’s hard work—many issues remain to be worked out.” 

Rubio noted that the United States is considering Russia’s conditions for agreements with Ukraine but cautioned that “reaching a peace agreement will take time.” He also said it was positive that both Ukrainians and Russians are discussing a ceasefire, whether in the energy sector or in the Black Sea.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking at a press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron, said it was “premature” to ease Western sanctions against Russia.

“We are talking with all partners, including the United States, and separately with the EU as they prepare new sanction packages as long as Russia refuses to end the war,” Zelenskyy said.