The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) said on Thursday that it would “temporarily remove” all members of its international mission from Ukraine as soon as possible, according to a statement from the secretary-general. Helga Maria Schmid.
Schmid said the decision to withdraw OSCE staff from Ukraine was “due to the ongoing fighting and deteriorating security situation” in the country and “will be conducted as soon as possible and feasible depending on relevant factors on the ground.”
A spokesperson for the secretariat confirmed to the CNN that members of the Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) would be among the evacuees.
“The commitment and bravery of OSCE staff is commendable. The OSCE promptly established the Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) in 2014, and the dedicated men and women of this mission have been our unbiased eyes and ears across the country.”
“We have a legacy to be proud of in the country. We look forward to resuming our missions when circumstances allow,” she added.
The secretary-general said the decision “was not taken lightly and the relocation should be temporary”.
“The safety of the dedicated women and men who serve as the unbiased eyes and ears of the international community across the country is imperative,” their statement concluded.
Source: CNN Brasil
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