Sunday, February 22, 2015

Ukraine Crisis: Rebels ‘Agree’ Weapon Pullout Dates



 http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-31572259

Rebels in eastern Ukraine signed the orders to withdrawal heavy weapons over the next two weeks.  However, it is not clear as to whether Ukraine will also pull back.  These moves are a part of the Minsk ceasefire deal which was signed on February 12th.  Recently, Ukraine and the separatists exchanged 191 prisoners as part of the deal.  Although, this release marks significance progress, the reports called for a full exchange and both Ukraine and the rebels still have prisoners captive.  Leaders across the world such as US Secretary of State John Kerry and a number of European leaders have gotten involved in the matter and a “dignity march” is to take place on Sunday in the capital with a number of these European leaders to remember the victims shot during protests last year.  While there have been statements and agreements on the withdrawal, there have also been accusations of both Ukraine and rebels forces of breaches of the truce as well as reports of violations.  Many claim to have evidence that Russia is helping the rebels in Ukraine.  Russia, however, denies these claims stating that any Russians fighting in Ukraine are doing so on a volunteer status.  

Marissa Holaway 

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