Since 3 March the OSCE delegation has been gathering in Ukraine first-hand information about the situation in our country, including in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea considering the presence of the Russian troops in the territory of the peninsular.

The OSCE delegation expressed deep concerns with regard to the situation in Crimea, which they characterized as extremely dangerous. They also informed that unidentified armed people attempted to hinder the OSCE delegation work during the visit to Crimea, while the self-proclaimed Crimean leaders refused to meet with the OSCE representatives. 

In these regard, Andrii Olefirov requested the OSCE to establish a monitoring mission of OSCE to Ukraine, including the Autonomous Republic of Crimea as soon as possible.

The two sides discussed in details issues of utilizing OSCE institutions expertise and tools in achieving a solution to a current situation in Ukraine, protection of national minorities’ rights and media freedom, conflict prevention, expert assistance in drafting Ukrainian legislation in these spheres.

Andrii Olefirov emphasized that all Ukrainian authorities pay particular attention to strengthening principles of freedom of expressions, tolerance and non-discrimination, building-up the society on principles of democracy and rule of law.