OSCE to resume activities in Ukraine only after security improves

World June 30, 2014, 14:55

According to the organization, the members of the mission that were set free are feeling well, but psychological consequences may appear later

VIENNA, June 30. /ITAR-TASS/. The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) may completely resume the activities of observers’ mission in Ukraine only after the security conditions improve. Deputy Head of the mission Alexander Hug stated this on Monday.

He has specified that the issue of resuming the mission’s work is currently being discussed, but noted that to do that, checkpoints and illegal arms must disappear, and working conditions must improve.

Alexander Hug added that OSCE would regroup its observer mission in east Ukraine, if the situation deteriorates after the ceasefire regime expires.

The Chairman-in-office of the OSCE Permanent Council Thomas Greminger noted that the freed observers were "physically in a good shape", however, psychological consequences might appear later, and they were receiving medical assistance.

“We are relieved that both teams are safe. Their release was unconditional, they are unharmed and in good condition,” Thomas Greminger said.

OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier said this was the first similar experience in the organization’s history that had never seen such an incident before.

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