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OSCE welcomes amendments to Russia, Ukraine cease-fire agreement

Ukraine and Russian-backed rebels signed a memorandum on September 19 that outlines the parameters for the cease-fire implementation, building on the fragile truce that was introduced by the Minsk Protocol on September 5.

By JC Finley
The OSCE welcomed the signing of a memorandum that outlines the parameters for a more lasting cease-fire between Ukraine and Russian-backed rebels. (UPI/Ivan Vakolenko)
The OSCE welcomed the signing of a memorandum that outlines the parameters for a more lasting cease-fire between Ukraine and Russian-backed rebels. (UPI/Ivan Vakolenko) | License Photo

KIEV, Ukraine, Sept. 22 (UPI) -- The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe welcomed the signing of a memorandum by Ukraine and pro-Russia rebels on September 19.

Building on the fragile truce that resulted from the Minsk Protocol on September 5, the two sides outlined the parameters for the cease-fire implementation.

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The memorandum, OSCE Chairperson Didier Burkhalter said, is "a significant step towards making the cease-fire sustainable and an important contribution in the efforts to peacefully settle the crisis in Eastern Ukraine."

The signed memorandum calls for the creation of a 15 kilometer buffer zone to facilitate the withdrawal of foreign fighters, mercenaries and military equipment, with oversight by the OSCE.

On Saturday, Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council spokesman Volodymyr Poliovy said the buffer zone would be implemented immediately. "In accordance with the text of the memorandum, which talks about a 15 kilometer zone, each side should begin removing its heavy equipment and weapons today."

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