OSCE closes monitoring mission in Ukraine

The OSCE released this information on its website.

The statement says the OSCE had tried to find ways to extend its mandate, but that the Russian Federation’s position means that closing down is the only possible course of action.

"This is not an easy decision to make. We considered all possible options through political dialogue with the participating states to achieve a renewal of the mandate of the Special Monitoring Mission (SMM), but the position of the Russian Federation left us no choice but to take measures to close the mission. The mission played a decisive role in providing momentum and information on the ground, promoting a ceasefire and working to mitigate the impact of the conflict on the civilian population. The work of the members of the SMM deserves our gratitude", said OSCE Head Zbigniew Rau.