U.S.-Russia negotiations on the Black Sea make neighboring NATO countries nervous – Financial Times

Negotiations between the United States and Russia regarding the Black Sea are raising concerns among neighboring NATO countries. Officials from Romania and Bulgaria fear that any deal reached could restore some of Moscow’s influence over disputed waters and expand the operational zone of the Russian Navy.

This was reported by Financial Times, citing Romanian and Bulgarian officials.

Previously, Ukraine successfully pushed the Russian fleet out of the western Black Sea using naval drones. However, now, “it is expected that any agreement will be advantageous for Moscow.”

The White House and the Kremlin have confirmed that today, during negotiations in Saudi Arabia, they will discuss a ceasefire in the Black Sea. Moscow also clarified that the discussions would include the possible resumption of the grain deal.

Ukraine had little to gain from the grain deal, as it restricted its maritime exports to food products only and gave Russia control over cargo inspections on vessels leaving Ukrainian Black Sea ports.

After Russia withdrew from the grain deal in July 2023, following an attack on the Crimean Bridge, Ukraine managed to fully restore its maritime exports within a few months—this time without any Russian oversight.