The Ukrainian government has begun its heavy weapons from the frontlines of the conflict with pro-Russian separatists in the east of the country, under the terms of a ceasefire agreement.
“Today Ukraine has begun the withdrawal of 100 millimeter guns from the line of confrontation,” said Ukraine’s military in a statement.
However the military went on to say it reserved the right to withdrawal schedule “in the event of any attempted offensive”. “If there are attempts to attack, the heavy weapons withdrawal schedule will be adjusted,” the statement continued. “Ukrainian troops are fully prepared to defend the country.”
The spokesperson for the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Michael Bociurkiw, said both sides now had to ensure an inventory of weapons would be expected to be provided to monitors. “It’s not enough to be invited to follow the removal process part of the way. It has to be complete,” said Mr Bociurkiw. “It’s not a shopping list, you cannot pick and choose.”
“It’s not a one-shot deal,” he added. “We don’t want to be put in a position where we are rubber-stamping movements. Our bottom line is credible verification.”