SMM patrols in Ukraine are facing significant challenges in their operations due to restrictions on movement. These limitations affect their ability to monitor and verify the withdrawal of heavy weapons as per the Minsk implementation package dated February 12. Both Ukrainian military forces and Russia-backed separatists have hindered the SMM from accompanying convoys of heavy weapons to their final destinations. However, there is a notable difference between the two sides. In areas controlled by the Ukrainian government, SMM movement is mostly unrestricted, with exceptions being rare. Conversely, in territories under Russia-backed separatist control, movement is severely restricted, requiring specific security assurances for any permitted activity.
The restrictions imposed by Russia-backed separatists have prevented SMM monitors from accessing large portions of separatist-controlled areas, particularly along the border with Russia. The separatists are urged to allow full access throughout their controlled territories to enable verification of heavy weapon withdrawals.
While focusing on ceasefire efforts and weapon withdrawal, attention must also be given to Russian forces massing along Ukraine's border and evidence suggesting continued resupply of separatists by Russia. The SMM reported tanks moving across the border from Russia into Ukraine near Chernoviy Zhovten earlier this week. It is essential for OSCE mechanisms to continue monitoring fighter and equipment flows across international borders effectively.
In line with agreements made in the Minsk Protocol on September 5, 2014, signed by Mikhail Zubarov on behalf of Russia, permanent monitoring of the Ukrainian-Russian border by OSCE was agreed upon. Compliance with these responsibilities under the Minsk agreements is urged.
The United States has expressed its support for extending the SMM's mandate for another year and increasing financial resources needed for its duties. Raising the monitor ceiling to 1,000 will provide flexibility in responding to developing situations.
The nature of SMM’s responsibilities has evolved significantly since its initial mandate adoption a year ago. Secretary General Zannier described it as a “quasi-peacekeeping operation.” The Ukrainian government's call for an actual peacekeeping operation in eastern Ukraine merits serious consideration.
The United States calls on Russia to respect ceasefire agreements fully and allow unfettered access for SMM in separatist-controlled regions. Additionally, it urges Russia to cease supporting separatists and withdraw personnel from eastern Ukraine while allowing OSCE observation over its entire border with Ukraine.