Moscow Rejects Black Sea Ceasefire Proposal Amid Escalating Tensions

Russia has rejected a proposal for a ceasefire in the Black Sea region, dismissing it as 'half-measures' that would only provide temporary relief to Ukraine. The rejection comes amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with both sides targeting commercial ships in the Black Sea.

The conflict has driven world grain prices higher, with recent attacks on shipping causing concern for global food supplies. Maria Zakharova, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, accused Ukraine of 'brazen acts of terrorism' against shipping, while making no mention of Russia's own attacks.

Zakharova stated that Russia views these attacks as a deliberate policy aimed at destabilizing civilian shipping in the Black Sea region and prolonging the conflict. She also dismissed proposals for a moratorium on military operations in the Black Sea, saying that Russia had received no formal proposal from Turkey.