Hug demanded security for the OSCE mission from the leader of the "DNR" and asked "not to look for pretexts"

Principal Deputy Chief Monitor the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission Alexander Hug has met with leader of the "DNR" illegal armed group Alexander Zakharchenko. This is reported by Ukrayinska Pravda with reference to the press center of the OSCE SMM.

"Hug stressed that the security of the OSCE SMM members remains a high priority for the mission, and those who violate the safety of personnel or property of the SMM should be held accountable", - the report said.

During the meeting, Hug stressed the freedom of movement of the mission, including access to an unprotected border with Russia, which is limited in the territory, controlled by Zakharchenko's militants.

The OSCE representative recalled that in November, militants had violated the freedom of movement of the OSCE SMM members at least 23 times.

"Hug raised the issue of long-term non-compliance with the Minsk agreements, what is reflected in the daily reports of the mission. He expressed concern about shelling and shooting near critical infrastructure such as Donetsk and purification plants", - the OSCE SMM noted.

Hug called for joint efforts, aimed at preserving these facilities and removing heavy weapons from these places.

Moreover, he expressed concern about the continued presence of positions in or near civil infrastructure.

Hug regretted that he had spent too much time fighting and called not to look for pretexts any more in order not to improve the situation, - the statement said.

"Damaged infrastructure should be repaired without any further delays", - he stressed.