India, Egypt and Turkey are exploring maritime truce options to restore safe commercial shipping in the Black Sea, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. His remarks indicated that Kyiv is prepared to support an arrangement if Russia responds positively and undertakes corresponding steps towards de-escalation.

Speaking at the Sixth Summit of the International Crimea Platform in New York, held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Zelenskyy said the three countries had submitted their proposals in writing. He said Ukraine agreed with approaches that could protect food security and ensure safe navigation, but was awaiting Russia’s response.

Zelenskyy said Ukraine was ready to contribute to safe navigation and food security in the Black Sea. He linked progress to reciprocal action by Russia, saying Moscow needed to demonstrate respect for other countries and address issues including food security, energy security and the safety of civilians.

The announcement confirms that written options involving India are under consideration, although the commitments required to establish safe passage have not been settled. The parties could seek different concessions before agreeing on arrangements to protect maritime trade and commercial shipping in the region.

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has engaged with both Ukraine and Russia during the conflict. Disruptions to Black Sea shipping have affected global grain and commodity supplies, increasing concerns among countries that rely on exports from the region. Any agreement could therefore have implications for food security and maritime trade beyond the immediate parties to the conflict.