Concerned over Reports of Continued Hostilities in Ukraine, Secretary-General Reiterates Call for All Parties to Abide by Ceasefire ‘without Exception’

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General welcomes the start of a ceasefire in eastern Ukraine, as agreed on 12 February under the package of measures for implementation of the Minsk accords.

He notes that the ceasefire appears to be largely holding, giving a desperately needed respite to civilians trapped in the area and contributing to a swift and peaceful resolution of the conflict.  However, the Secretary-General is seriously concerned over reports of continued instances of hostilities including in Debaltseve and reiterates his call for all parties to abide by the ceasefire without exception.

The Secretary-General reminds all of the significance of the ceasefire, which forms the basis for the broader implementation of the Minsk accords and to restore peace and stability to Ukraine.