In a recent statement, concerns were raised about ongoing violations of international law by the Russian Federation in Ukraine. The speaker noted that while some areas have seen a cessation of fighting, conflict persists in key strategic locations due to actions by Russia-backed separatists and the Russian military.
The failure to implement the Minsk agreements has been highlighted, with reports indicating that the Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) is often denied access to territories controlled by Russia-backed separatists. In contrast, there is generally free access to government-controlled areas, though some delays at Ukrainian checkpoints have been reported.
It was stated that the ceasefire violations are linked to Russia's continued military presence in eastern Ukraine and its support for separatists. The international community's primary goal should be ensuring compliance with commitments made in Minsk, starting with stopping the fighting and supporting the ceasefire.
Several steps were outlined to achieve this goal: Russia must stop arming and training separatists and withdraw military resources from Ukraine; all parties should support OSCE efforts to end fighting at hotspots; working groups under the Trilateral Contact Group should be launched; ODIHR experts should engage with political working groups and prepare for election monitoring; and humanitarian assistance delivery methods should be identified.
These measures are deemed necessary but not sufficient for resolving the crisis. A full resolution requires Russia to take specific actions such as ending support for separatists, adhering to ceasefire agreements, allowing border observation, withdrawing from Crimea, and releasing hostages.
The speaker concluded by emphasizing that peace depends on Russia taking these steps.