Mr. Chairman, we note that another week has passed and Russia has not issued a new Vienna Document notification updating the information it provided on October 28 concerning its force disposition and objectives in Chechnya. We call on the Russian Federation to do so as soon as possible in the interest of transparency.

We also have not yet received an invitation to the promised Vienna Document observation, which would contribute substantially to developing a more objective understanding of the situation. Conditions may now be conducive for an observation, considering official Russian statements that the situation is returning to normal and recent visits to the area by several international organizations.

We note that the ultimatum deadline passed last Saturday without a massive attack on Groznyy, and we see that as a hopeful sign that Russian leaders are reconsidering their operational methods.

Nevertheless, we remain concerned about the Russian military’s ultimate plans with respect to Groznyy and we continue to urge restraint. Russia must refrain from using indiscriminate and disproportionate force, in keeping with its commitments under paragraph 36 of the Code of Conduct.

Russia has on obligation to avoid harming innocent civilians, and it should allow full freedom of movement for displaced persons.

It is also important that Russia work constructively with international relief organizations to provide adequate security and access for their courageous efforts – in accordance with its Code of Conduct paragraph 19 commitments.

We share the concerns raised this past weekend by Human Rights Watch over the alleged behavior of Russian troops at Alkhan-Yurt. We call on the Russian Government to conduct a full investigation, and, if this report proves accurate, to bring to justice those responsible.

We welcome the Duma amnesty resolution, and we urge the Russian Government to take additional steps to encourage rebel fighters to cease combat operations and restore peace in Chechnya.

We are encouraged by Prime Minister Putin’s statements that the Russian Government is engaging in dialogue with Chechen representatives. We hope this will be a step toward the political solution that we and the international community have consistently urged all sides to seek.

We view the current trip of the Chairman-in-Office to the region to hold the promise of the OSCE playing a constructive role in bringing about political dialogue.

The sooner all parties cease military operations and move toward a political dialogue, the sooner the innocent people of Chechnya – who have borne the brunt of this conflict – can begin rebuilding their lives. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.