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Russia Eyes New Black Sea Deal – But Only If Washington Pressures Zelenskyy, Lavrov Claims

Russia is ramping up its stance in talks with the U.S., with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov revealing that Moscow is open to a new agreement on Black Sea shipping security. However, there's a catch – the deal will only happen if the U.S. gives President Zelenskyy a direct order to abide by it.

According to Reuters, both sides have been trading blame for the collapse of a previous agreement in 2023, aimed at safeguarding merchant shipping in the Black Sea after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Lavrov stressed the need for "clear guarantees" and made it clear that any deal would only be valid with U.S. backing, saying, "The guarantees can only come from Washington ordering Zelenskyy to comply."

His comments suggest that Russia is pushing for increased U.S. pressure on Ukraine before agreeing to a maritime ceasefire – a move that could pave the way for a broader truce, according to Washington.

Chalmers Delivers 2025 Budget Speech

For a budget that many thought wouldn’t happen due to the upcoming election, things have turned out to be quite eventful. Here are the key takeaways:

• The Albanese government has introduced a tax cut “top up” as the highlight of its pre-election budget. This means the average worker will see an extra $538 per year in their paycheck starting mid-2027.

• Meanwhile, the Coalition has made it clear they won’t support Labor’s tax cuts but are staying tight-lipped about whether they have their own income tax cuts in the works.

• Treasurer Jim Chalmers has defended the budget, calling it “responsible” and arguing that the tax cuts are fiscally sound.

• The reaction has been mixed—the ACTU has welcomed both the tax cuts and the ban on non-compete clauses, while the Business Council of Australia supports the cuts but believes more should have been done to strengthen the private sector.

• Adding to the drama, earlier today, parliament saw intense debates over a last-minute bill aimed at protecting Tasmania’s salmon industry. Environmentalists have raised concerns, arguing it could further endanger the Maugean skate—a rare fish species. Despite the controversy, the bill was passed in the House around 6 PM.

That’s a wrap for today’s budget coverage! I’ll be back bright and early tomorrow with all the latest from Parliament House—coffee in hand, of course!