In a recent exchange at the OSCE meeting, Ambassador Baer responded to the Russian Ambassador regarding President Putin's proposal to Ukraine. The proposal suggested a cease-fire and withdrawal of heavy weapons from specific areas but was criticized for not being a true peace plan. Instead, it was seen as an attempt to modify existing agreements under the Minsk protocol.
The letter sent by President Putin to Ukrainian President Poroshenko on January 15th included a map indicating new cease-fire lines based on "the situation on November 19, 2014 and January 13, 2015." This proposal was said to favor separatists by extending their control over more Ukrainian territory than agreed upon in the Minsk accords.
Ambassador Power previously described this as "a plan of occupation," dismissing Russian claims that accepting the proposal could have prevented violence in Mariupol. She highlighted ongoing separatist attacks beyond even those lines proposed by Russia.
Criticism was also directed at Russia for not fulfilling its commitments made in September under the Minsk agreement. Despite allegations from Russia that their plan would have reduced conflict, evidence suggests continued support for separatists through military supplies and personnel.
Ambassador Baer emphasized that if Russia is sincere about achieving peace, it must stop supporting separatists militarily and adhere to its Minsk obligations. Failure to do so could result in further isolation and consequences for Russia.
"Thank you, Mr. Chair."