Red Cross may get access to occupied Donbas this week for first time

16.12.2019 12:24

Ukrinform

Representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross are to get access to the occupied territories of the Donbas this week for the first time so as to find out the fate of nearly 500 people who are reported missing, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko has said in an interview with UNIAN.

"We have agreed that by the end of the year there will be three important events that will allow us to see if we can really count on progress. First, the release of 'all agreed for all agreed' persons. However, we keep in mind that we have to reach the implementation of the 'all-for-all' formula. Secondly, a lasting, permanent and comprehensive ceasefire. [...] Another event that is very important to us will take place this week. At our request, the Red Cross will make another attempt to reach those areas, cross the contact line and take part in the investigation into the whereabouts, according to various estimates, of almost 500 people who are reported missing," Prystaiko said.

He added that ICRC representatives would need to reach every person detained and held in occupied Donbas.

"Until now, the Red Cross has never received such access. We have agreed with [Russian President Vladimir] Putin about this access, and this week we will be able to find out whether this happened or not," the minister said.