Linde, Lavrov discuss de-escalation of tensions in and around Ukraine

This was discussed during Linde’s visit to Moscow, reads the press release on the OSCE’s website.

“We held constructive talks on the need to de-escalate tensions in and around Ukraine and ease the hardship for civilians on both sides of the contact line. We owe it to the people in the conflict-affected areas to end violence and prevent further casualties and suffering in eastern Ukraine,” Linde said.

The Chairperson-in-Office also stressed the importance of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM). “As the objective eyes and the ears of the international community on the ground, the Mission’s safe and secure access throughout Ukraine is more important than ever in the current circumstances of heightened tensions,” Linde said.

Linde and Lavrov also discussed the situation on the border of Belarus and developments with regard to Armenia and Azerbaijan.

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