Ongoing Violations of International Law by the Russian Federation in Ukraine

Ongoing Violations of International Law by the Russian Federation in Ukraine As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 26, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chair. At next week’s Ministerial Council, the first in a fully virtual format, we expect to see significant attention paid to the Russia-led conflict in ...
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By | 26 November, 2020 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , ,

On Russia’s Ongoing Aggression against Ukraine and Illegal Occupation of Crimea

Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Principles and Commitments by the Russian Federation in Ukraine As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 12, 2020 Thank you, Madam Chairperson. As part of a broader program to destabilize its sovereign neighbor, Russia has fomented and financed a ...
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By | 12 November, 2020 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , , ,

Russian Aggression in Ukraine

On Russia’s Ongoing Aggression against Ukraine and Illegal Occupation of Crimea

On Russia’s Ongoing Aggression against Ukraine and Illegal Occupation of Crimea As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 5, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairman.  On October 29, the OSCE’s Observer Mission at the Gukovo and Donetsk checkpoints issued a spot report confirming another Russian convoy—the 97th!—crossing into Ukraine via the Donetsk Border Crossing Point.  The Mission observed a total of six ...
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By | 5 November, 2020 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , , ,

On Russia’s Ongoing Aggression against Ukraine and Illegal Occupation of Crimea

Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Principles and Commitments by the Russian Federation in Ukraine As delivered by Deputy Chief of Mission Courtney Austrian to the Permanent Council, Vienna October 29, 2020 Thank you, Madam Chair. As October draws to a close, we are encouraged by another month of lower levels of ...
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By | 29 October, 2020 | Topics: Protracted Conflicts, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , ,

Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Principles and Commitments by the Russian Federation in Ukraine

Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Principles and Commitments by the Russian Federation in Ukraine As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna October 22, 2020   Thank you, Mr. Chairman.   Earlier this year, in this Permanent Council, we marked the 45th anniversary of the Helsinki ...
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By | 22 October, 2020 | Topics: First Dimension, Protracted Conflicts, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , ,

Amb Gilmore w Amb Bush

Ambassador Gilmore and UK Ambassador Neil Bush discuss OSCE contribution to Euro-Atlantic security

Ambassador Gilmore and UK Ambassador Neil Bush discuss OSCE contribution to Euro-Atlantic security PRESS RELEASE | August 28, 2019 USOSCE Ambassador James Gilmore and Ambassador Neil Bush, Head of the United Kingdom’s delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), met on August 29 to confer on vital emerging foreign policy for ...
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By | 30 August, 2019 | Topics: Human Rights, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , ,

ASRC: Stability and Security in light of Developments with Respect to Ukraine

Annual Security Review Conference: Special Session on Ensuring Security and Stability in the OSCE region in Light of Developments with Respect to Ukraine As delivered by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Christopher Robinson, Vienna, June 25, 2019 With the conflict in Ukraine now in its sixth year, we should collectively ...
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By | 25 June, 2019 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Names of the MH17 victims at the National Monument for MH17 in Vijfhuizen, The Netherlands

Prosecution of Four Suspects in MH17 Case

Prosecution of Four Suspects in the MH17 Case As delivered by Acting Deputy Head of Mission Gregory Macris to the Permanent Council, Vienna June 20, 2019 As U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo stated yesterday: “The United States welcomes the announcement today regarding the indictment of four individuals for their role in the downing of ...
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By | 20 June, 2019 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , , ,

Assistant Secretary for European Affairs Mitchell

Remarks at a Ukraine-Hosted Side Event on Russian Aggression in Crimea and the Sea of Azov

Remarks at the Ukraine-Hosted Side Event at the 2018 OSCE Ministerial Council On Russian Aggression in Crimea, the Kerch Strait, and the Sea of Azov As delivered by Assistant Secretary of State A. Wess Mitchell December 6, 2018 Thank you, Pavlo, for organizing this important event. The past four years of Russian aggression against Ukraine ...
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By | 7 December, 2018 | Topics: Human Rights, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , ,

A Russia-backed separatist walks past tanks near Novoazovsk, eastern Ukraine, Oct. 21, 2015. (AP Photo/Max Black)

Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine

Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Principles and Commitments by the Russian Federation in Ukraine As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Harry Kamian to the Permanent Council, Vienna June 14, 2018 Mr. Chair, intense fighting near the Donetsk Filtration Station led to a temporary suspension of its operations last week, jeopardizing the ...
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By | 14 June, 2018 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

A Russia-backed separatist walks past tanks near Novoazovsk, eastern Ukraine, Oct. 21, 2015. (AP Photo/Max Black)

On Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine

Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Principles and Commitments by the Russian Federation in Ukraine As delivered by Deputy Political Counselor Darren Perdue to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 16, 2017 Thank you, Mr. Chair. The conflict in the Donbas seems to have returned to an established pattern as we enter the ...
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By | 16 November, 2017 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine logo

Response to the OSCE Project Coordinator in Ukraine, Ambassador Vaidotas Verba

The Project Coordinator in Ukraine (PCU) plays an indispensable role in providing assistance to Ukraine. Key projects offer training on psychological support to people in conflict-affected areas; advocate for humanitarian demining; promote the safety of journalists; and support policy recommendations that draw attention to the plight of displaced persons.
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By | 6 July, 2017 | Topics: Sections & Offices, Statements, Ukraine, Ukraine Crisis | Tags:

GUAM logo with flags of member states

Response to Altai Efendiev, Secretary General of the Organization for Democracy and Economic Development

We share the concerns of Organization for Democracy and Economic Development member states about the active and protracted conflicts in this region, and are deeply concerned by continuing violations of member states’ sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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By | 8 June, 2017 | Topics: Freedom of Expression, Human Rights, Statements, Trade | Tags: , , ,

Ukraine Flag and Helsinki Act

Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Commitments by Russia in Ukraine

Within 30 meters of a hospital, there was a shell crater four meters in diameter and two meters deep, assessed to have been fired from a 152mm artillery piece located in “separatist”-controlled territory. Because a shell of this size will generally kill anything within 50 meters of impact, it caused extensive damage to the hospital.
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By | 1 June, 2017 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

OSCE SMM in Pavlopil

Response to Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine and Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine

Russia’s aggression against Ukraine has shaken the very foundations of security and stability in Europe, and is antithetical to a vision of Europe that is whole, free, and at peace. The United States affirms its staunch support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally-recognized borders.
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By | 11 May, 2017 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Ukrainian Flag and Russian Flags over map of Luhansk

Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Principles by Russia

Only a visible, verifiable, and irreversible improvement in the security situation will allow progress on the Minsk agreements, starting with a real and sustainable ceasefire, disengagement of forces, and the withdrawal of heavy weapons. Yet Russia continues a pattern of behavior that undermines disengagement.
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By | 4 May, 2017 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

War-damaged apartment buildings in Avdyivka

Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Principles and Commitments by the Russian Federation in Ukraine

The surge in violence in eastern Ukraine provides yet another stark reminder of Russia’s ongoing aggression against its neighbor, a conflict Russia initiated and sustains. Over the course of the past week, the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) counted the highest number of explosions by proscribed heavy weapons during the past year, with ...
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By | 30 March, 2017 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Commitments by Russia in Ukraine

Russian aggression in eastern Ukraine continues to cost lives every day. More than a million people remain displaced by fighting. The humanitarian crisis has worsened, as shelling periodically cuts off water and power to people living in the Donbas. The economy has been severely damaged. And OSCE monitors continue to face restrictions, harassment, and aggression.
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By | 23 March, 2017 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Ambassador Haley’s Remarks to the UN Security Council on Conflicts in Europe

The OSCE is playing a crucial role observing and monitoring the situation in eastern Ukraine. U.S. bonds with NATO and the OSCE have stood the test of time. These are institutions that bring together partners on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean to defend our shared ideals.
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By | 22 February, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Human Rights, Protracted Conflicts, Statements | Tags: , , , ,

OSCE monitors on patrol in Novooleksandrivka, Luhansk region, March 20, 2016. (OSCE/Evgeniy Maloletka)

Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Principles and Commitments by the Russian Federation in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

This conflict will remain volatile until weapons proscribed by the Minsk agreements are withdrawn, and the framework decisions on disengagement and demining are fully implemented. Otherwise, there is little to stop small-scale clashes from escalating, and this conflict from continuing.
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By | 26 January, 2017 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

United States nameplate in the Hofburg Congress Center's Neuer Saal, the location of many OSCE Permanent Council Meetings, Vienna, March 9, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

On the Russian-Separatist Forces’ Offensive near Svitlodarsk, Ukraine | Statement to the PC

The United States expresses its deep concern over the offensive launched by combined Russian-separatist forces on Sunday, December 18, in what appears to have been a failed attempt to seize territory in strategic areas outside the town of Svitlodarsk, which is located near separatist-held Debaltseve. This brazen violation of the Minsk agreements is an issue ...
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By | 20 December, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , ,

A TV camera positioned in front of a backdrop with OSCE logos prior to a news conference at the Hofburg in Vienna. (OSCE, Mikhail Evstafiev)

TRANSCRIPT: Ambassador Baer’s Press Roundtable

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 15, 2016  Ambassador Baer’s Press Roundtable  December 15, 2016  Hofburg Palace Vienna, Austria  AMBASSADOR BAER:  Thanks everyone.  I know that this is supposed to be a conversation that is forward looking and that is looking specifically at the Austrian Chairmanship taking over next year, but in order to have some idea ...
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By | 16 December, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , , ,

A TV camera positioned in front of a backdrop with OSCE logos prior to a news conference at the Hofburg in Vienna. (OSCE, Mikhail Evstafiev)

Reply to Russian Federation on Russia’s Ongoing Violations of Ukraine’s Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity | Statement to the PC

I wanted to respond, not really directly to our distinguished Russian colleague, but rather, to point out to the rest of my distinguished colleagues around this table – just picking up on that last point that we heard from the Russian delegation this morning: that all those who are interested in dialogue need to accept ...
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By | 15 December, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Flags of the OSCE participating States outside the Hofburg Congress Center in Vienna, Austria (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Response to the OSCE Special Representative for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings | Statement to the PC

The United States welcomes Ambassador Jarbussynova to the Permanent Council.  Ambassador, thank you for efforts and for the accomplishments of the Office of the Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings highlighted in your report. The United States strongly supports the work of the OSCE Special Representative and that of her staff, ...
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By | 15 December, 2016 | Topics: Combating Trafficking in Persons, Statements | Tags:

OSCE monitors on patrol in Novooleksandrivka, Luhansk region, March 20, 2016. (OSCE/Evgeniy Maloletka)

On Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

Thank you, Mr. Chair.  Combined Russian-separatist forces continue to sustain the violence in eastern Ukraine, with hundreds of explosions registered daily and proscribed heavy weapons used, including multiple launch rocket systems. Despite overwhelming evidence that Russia arms, trains, and fights alongside so-called “separatists,” Moscow continues to deny involvement. On December 9, fighters in the separatist-held ...
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By | 15 December, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

A TV camera positioned in front of a backdrop with OSCE logos prior to a news conference at the Hofburg in Vienna. (OSCE, Mikhail Evstafiev)

Ambassador Baer’s Interview with Gazeta.ru

One of the things that gets misunderstood is that while it is true that it is difficult to reach consensus today in the OSCE, on most things, there is agreement by at least 55 or 56 States. It is usually one or two holdouts. When it’s one, it’s usually the Russian Federation. And when it’s ...
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By | 13 December, 2016 | Topics: Arms control, Former U.S. Ambassadors, Human Rights, Statements, Ukraine, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Secretary of State John Kerry at the 2016 OSCE Ministerial Council, Hamburg, Germany, Dec. 8, 2016. (State Department Photo)

Secretary of State John Kerry at the Opening Session of the OSCE Ministerial | Statement to the 2016 Ministerial Council

Friends and colleagues, we meet in Hamburg today to reaffirm the same idea that tied us together in Helsinki 41 years ago: that our collective security is directly linked to the growth of our economies and the protection of basic human rights.
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By | 8 December, 2016 | Topics: Civil Society and NGOs, Freedom of Expression, Human Rights, Media Freedom, Protracted Conflicts, Statements, Tolerance and Non-discrimination, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , , , , , ,

Ambassador Ertugrul Apakan, the OSCE's Chief Monitor in Ukraine, updating the Permanent Council, Vienna, December 1, 2016. (USOSCE/Vanja Ban)

Response to OSCE’s Chief Monitor in Ukraine, Ambassador Apakan, and the CiO’s Special Representative, Ambassador Sajdik

The United States welcomes Ambassadors Apakan and Sajdik back to the Permanent Council. Ambassadors, we thank you for your report, and for your tireless efforts to see the Minsk agreements implemented in full. Ambassador Apakan, please convey our gratitude to your monitors and staff who serve in difficult and at times dangerous conditions. This week, ...
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By | 1 December, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

OSCE SMM monitors patrolling in Kominternove, 15 January 2016. (OSCE/Evgeniy Maloletka)

On Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

The situation continues to deteriorate in eastern Ukraine. In mid-November ceasefire violations reached their highest levels since the establishment of the Special Monitoring Mission in 2014. Furthermore, the SMM recorded last week the highest-ever number of violations from heavy weapons, including multiple launch rocket systems. Combined Russian-separatist forces continue to be responsible for the majority ...
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By | 24 November, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

United States nameplate in the Hofburg Congress Center's Neuer Saal, the location of many OSCE Permanent Council Meetings, Vienna, March 9, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

On the Extension of the Mandate of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

In connection with the adoption of the Decision for the Extension of the Mandate of the OSCE Project Coordinator in Ukraine, the United States would like to make the following interpretative statement under paragraph IV.1(A)6 of the OSCE Rules of Procedure: The United States notes that Crimea remains an integral and internationally-recognized part of Ukraine, ...
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By | 24 November, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags:

OSCE SMM observers in Stanytsia Luhanska, Luhansk region, 18 March 2016. (OSCE/Evgeniy Maloletka)

Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

For the second week in a row, ceasefire violations in eastern Ukraine reached as many as three thousand incidents in a single day.That is on par with the high levels of violence in April and July. Combined Russian-separatist forces continue to be responsible for provoking the majority of attacks. In addition, the Special Monitoring Mission ...
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By | 17 November, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Flags with the OSCE logo in Russian and English in front of the Hofburg in Vienna. (OSCE/Mikhail Evstafiev)

Replies to Russia on the OSCE Observer Mission at the Russian Border Checkpoints Gukovo and Donetsk | Statement to the PC

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. I, too, was disappointed with the statement from the Russian delegation today. Colleagues, I think it’s important — I’d just like to remind of one quote from our Russian colleague today — that some of us around the table point to “an external boogie man who can be blamed ...
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By | 17 November, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Statements | Tags: ,

OSCE SMM patrolling in eastern Ukraine near Zolote/Pervomaisk area in September 2016 (OSCE/Evgeniy Maloletka)

Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

The United States remains deeply concerned by the fighting in eastern Ukraine. The ceasefire appears to be unraveling, and violence has reached peak levels not seen since August 2015. To safeguard civilian lives, all parties must act now to secure a real and comprehensive ceasefire and complete disengagement. Steps must be taken to improve the ...
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By | 10 November, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Great Seal of the United States

Reply to Russia on its Ongoing Violations in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I, too, wanted to respond to some of the comments made by our distinguished Russian colleague. First, to remind all colleagues around this table about SMM reporting, which we value highly and study closely. For many months now, SMM reporting — obviously, as folks know, the SMM can only report things ...
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By | 3 November, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) President Peter Maurer at the OSCE Permanent Council, Vienna, Oct. 27, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Response to Peter Maurer, International Committee of the Red Cross President | Statement to the PC

I would like to start by expressing our sincere gratitude to President Maurer for his remarks and thoughtful recommendations on behalf of the International Committee of the Red Cross. We first met in Washington several years ago in our previous capacities. It has been a real pleasure to see you and your success in your ...
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By | 27 October, 2016 | Topics: Human Rights, Protracted Conflicts, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , , , , ,

The badly damaged and increasingly perilous footbridge at Stanytsia Luhanska, Stanytsia Luhanska area, Luhansk region, 2016. Full adherence to the disengagement agreement will allow for repairs to the bridge and improve the lives of thousands of people who cross there each day. (OSCE photo)

Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

The current effort toward disengagement provides a window of opportunity to put in place a lasting ceasefire in eastern Ukraine, as Ambassadors Sajdik and Apakan told the Permanent Council last week. While we recognize signs of progress on disengagement – such as the withdrawal of forces on both sides of the contact line at Petrivske ...
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By | 13 October, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

United States nameplate in the Hofburg Congress Center's Neuer Saal, the location of many OSCE Permanent Council Meetings, Vienna, March 9, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Response to the Report by the Director of the OSCE Conflict Prevention Center | Statement to the PC

The United States welcomes Ambassador Peško back to the Permanent Council, and thanks him for his report. At the outset, let me commend the dedicated and talented staff members of the Conflict Prevention Center (CPC) and their work to support the OSCE’s response to our shared security challenges – in particular, Russian aggression against Ukraine. ...
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By | 13 October, 2016 | Topics: Politico-Military Activities, Protracted Conflicts, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , , ,

In this March 2015 photo, an OSCE monitor inspects a cannon stored by Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. (AP Photo/Mstyslav Chernov)

Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

The United States welcomes Ambassadors Apakan and Sajdik back to the Permanent Council and thanks them for their efforts to peacefully resolve the conflict in eastern Ukraine. We must take this opportunity to build on the September 1 ceasefire re-commitment and the Framework Decision on Disengagement, effective September 21. From September 19 to 25, Ukraine ...
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By | 4 October, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Great Seal of the United States

Right of Reply at the Closing Plenary of HDIM 2016

The Russian Federation made yet another effort to blame Ukraine for the Russian Federation’s military intervention in that country.  The absurdity of this claim is matched only by the Russian Delegation’s claim that the Munich agreement was responsible for WWII and in effect that the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact to military divide our host country and other ...
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By | 30 September, 2016 | Topics: Human Rights, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Ambassador Michael Kozak, Head of the U.S. Delegation to the OSCE Human Dimension Meeting 2016, delivering a statement in a plenary session, Warsaw, Poland, Sept. 21, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Closing Remarks | Statement at the Closing Plenary of HDIM 2016

As the 2016 HDIM draws to a close, my delegation wishes to share some observations that will shape our approach to the OSCE Ministerial in Hamburg. First: Helsinki Final Act Principles linking respect for human rights within states to lasting security among states could not be more relevant. These foundational principles are under siege and ...
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By | 30 September, 2016 | Topics: Civil Society and NGOs, Freedom of Expression, Human Rights, Media Freedom, Protracted Conflicts, Statements, Tolerance and Non-discrimination, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , , , , , , , ,

OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting 2016.

Roma and Sinti Issues | Statement at Working Session 15 of the 2016 HDIM

Two weeks ago, ODIHR and the German chairmanship organized a conference on the role of political leaders in countering discrimination, racism, and bias-motivated crimes against Roma. This conference built on an excellent side event convened during last year’s Human Dimension Implementation Meeting. We commend Germany and ODIHR for continuing to focus on this problem as ...
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By | 28 September, 2016 | Topics: Human Rights, Statements, Tolerance and Non-discrimination | Tags: , , , , , ,

View from inside the opening session of the OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting 2016, Sept. 19, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Women and Men | Statement at Working Session 14 of HDIM 2016

Equal opportunity for women and men in all spheres of life is critical to building resilient, democratic societies; supporting open and accountable governance; ending extreme poverty; furthering international peace and security; growing vibrant market economies; and addressing pressing health and education challenges. One of the biggest threats to reaching these goals is gender-based violence. As ...
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By | 28 September, 2016 | Topics: Civil Society and NGOs, Gender Equality, Human Rights, Statements | Tags: , , , ,

The OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Freedom of Movement | Statement at Working Session 13 of HDIM 2016

In Vienna in 1989, all participating States committed to, “respect the right of everyone to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each State, and to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country.” This right is still not fully respected in all participating States. Let me make it ...
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By | 27 September, 2016 | Topics: Civil Society and NGOs, Human Rights, Statements | Tags: , , , , , , ,

Ambassador Michael Kozak delivering a statement on behalf of the United States at the OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting 2016, Warsaw, Poland, Sept. 21, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Freedom of Thought, Conscience, Religion or Belief | Statement at Working Session 12 of HDIM 2016

Freedom of religion or belief is a founding principle of the Helsinki Process. Unfortunately, a small number of participating States engage in consistent, systematic violations and abuses of the freedom of religion or belief.
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By | 27 September, 2016 | Topics: Human Rights, Religious Freedom, Statements | Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Great Seal of the United States

Tolerance and Non-Discrimination | Right of Reply at Working Session 10 of HDIM 2016

If a government has law enforcement concerns about a participant, HDIM is not the appropriate forum to deal with it. There are inter-governmental tools for law enforcement cooperation. Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan: we want your participation. Walking out robs the rest of us of your government’s perspective. It is not an effective way to respond to ...
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By | 26 September, 2016 | Topics: Human Rights, Statements, Tolerance and Non-discrimination | Tags: , , ,

View from inside the opening session of the OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting 2016, Sept. 19, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Trafficking in Human Beings | Statement at Working Session 7 of HDIM 2016

The United States offers its continued support in the effort to save lives and protect those who are particularly vulnerable to human trafficking, including migrants and refugees. Europol has reported that known smuggling and human trafficking gangs are working together to exploit migrant vulnerabilities. This is particularly concerning given the influx last year of 90,000 ...
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By | 22 September, 2016 | Topics: Combating Trafficking in Persons, Human Rights, Statements | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ambassador Michael Kozak, Head of the U.S. Delegation to the OSCE Human Dimension Meeting 2016, delivering a statement in a plenary session, Warsaw, Poland, Sept. 21, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Freedom of Expression, Information, and Media Freedom | Statement at Working Session 6 of HDIM 2016

In establishing the Representative on Freedom of the Media in 1997, the OSCE participating States recognized that “free, independent, and pluralistic media are essential to a free and open society and accountable systems of government.”
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By | 22 September, 2016 | Topics: Freedom of Expression, Human Rights, Media Freedom, Statements | Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

Opening session of the OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting 2016, Sept. 19, Warsaw, Poland. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Democratic Institutions | Statement at Working Session 1 of HDIM 2016

Elections are an essential element of democracy and a cornerstone of democratic institutions. The U.S. greatly appreciates the OSCE’s invaluable role in election observation – indeed, this organization has developed what is known as the “gold standard” for its methodology on evaluating elections.
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By | 19 September, 2016 | Topics: Elections, Human Rights, Statements | Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

Flags with the OSCE logo in Russian and English in front of the Hofburg in Vienna. (OSCE/Mikhail Evstafiev)

On the International Day for the Victims of Enforced Disappearances | Statement to the PC

On August 30, we marked the International Day for the Victims of Enforced Disappearances. The United States stands in solidarity with the men and women around the world whose own governments have abducted them and detained them in secret. In too many countries, repressive regimes confronted by citizens trying to hold their leaders accountable will ...
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By | 8 September, 2016 | Topics: Human Rights, Statements | Tags: , ,

OSCE members monitor territory near a house destroyed by shelling in Solodke village, eastern Ukraine. (AP)

Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

As we mark two years after the September 5 Minsk Protocol of 2014, and soon the September 19, 2014 Minsk Memorandum, we must pause and reiterate the urgency of pursuing peace and the full implementation of those documents. The people of Ukraine deserve peace. The September 1 school-year ceasefire recommitment is an important opportunity to ...
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By | 8 September, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Great Seal of the United States

Reply to Russia on Russia’s ongoing violations in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

I’d just like to take the opportunity to respond to a couple of the statements made by our distinguished Russian colleague. First, there is no parallel reality. Many of us – I didn’t have the pleasure of seeing our distinguished Russian colleague there last week in Potsdam – but many of us were present in ...
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By | 8 September, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

A Russia-backed separatist walks past tanks near Novoazovsk, eastern Ukraine, Oct. 21, 2015. (AP Photo/Max Black)

Replies to Russia on its Ongoing Violations in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. Just to respond to the statement of our distinguished Russian colleague — who just responded to my statement and said that he disagreed with what he claimed I said– He claimed I said that all restrictions on the SMM are the result of the Russia-backed separatists. I did not ...
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By | 21 July, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Sebastian Kurz, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Austria, speaking at a session of the OSCE Permanent Council, Vienna, 14 July 2016. (OSCE/Micky Kroell)

Response to Sebastian Kurz, Foreign Minister of Austria | Statement to the PC

Minister Kurz, the United States welcomes you to the Permanent Council, and offers its sincere thanks to Austria for taking on the Chairmanship of the OSCE in 2017. When the current Chairman-in-Office, Minister Steinmeier, appeared at the Permanent Council in January, we noted that Germany was assuming the Chairmanship at a time when Europe faced ...
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By | 14 July, 2016 | Topics: Human Rights, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , ,

United States nameplate in the Hofburg Congress Center's Neuer Saal, the location of many OSCE Permanent Council Meetings, Vienna, March 9, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Reply to Russia on the Renewal of the Russia-Ukraine Border Checkpoint Observation Mission | Statement to the PC

Since the distinguished Russian ambassador made a statement that directly contradicts or responded to an element in the statement by my delegation, I just wanted to clarify that the part of the Minsk Protocol – since the distinguished Russian ambassador said that the Minsk Protocol of September 2014 in no way mentions monitoring of the ...
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By | 7 July, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

United States nameplate in the Hofburg Congress Center's Neuer Saal, the location of many OSCE Permanent Council Meetings, Vienna, March 9, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

European Security | Statement at the Closing Session of the 2016 ASRC

As we have seen over the past three days, the large turnout of officials from our capitals demonstrates that our governments take seriously the opportunity provided by the ASRC to review the implementation of our OSCE security commitments. The United States values this forum highly, and our delegation included a Special Assistant to the President, ...
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By | 30 June, 2016 | Topics: Politico-Military Activities, Protracted Conflicts, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags:

Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia, Ukraine, & Eurasia Dr. Michael R. Carpenter at the Annual Security Review Conference, Vienna, June 29, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Conventional Arms Control and CSBMS: Problems and Prospects | Statement at the 2016 ASRC

Mr. Chairman, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen: thank you for the opportunity to contribute to a discussion of Conventional Arms Control and Confidence­ and Security­ Building Measures (CSBMs) at this year’s Annual Security Review Conference. This is an important topic that deserves thoughtful reflection and an honest exchange of views, particularly at this time of great ...
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By | 29 June, 2016 | Topics: Statements | Tags: , ,

A Georgian police officer guards the administrative boundary line with Georgia's province of South Ossetia. (AP)

Response to Russia on the Geneva Discussions | Statement to the PC

Colleagues, I’d just like to call attention once again, since this has been a pattern, to the statement just made by our distinguished Russian colleague. When we see the continued denial of the reality of the situation that Russia is occupying territory that belongs to neighboring countries – and that’s countries plural, obviously – it ...
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By | 23 June, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Protracted Conflicts, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: , ,

A Russia-backed separatist walks past tanks near Novoazovsk, eastern Ukraine, Oct. 21, 2015. (AP Photo/Max Black)

On Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

The United States strongly condemns the attack that occurred yesterday on the government-controlled town of Vodiane, where mortar fire hit the town while SMM monitors were carrying out a patrol. The attack put civilians and SMM monitors at grave risk. This gross violation of the Minsk agreements is completely unacceptable, and those responsible must be held ...
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By | 23 June, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

A Russia-backed separatist walks past tanks near Novoazovsk, eastern Ukraine, Oct. 21, 2015. (AP Photo/Max Black)

Right of Reply to Russia on its Ongoing Violations in Ukraine | Statement to the PC

I’ve appreciated listening to the discussion this morning, and in particular the exchange we just heard between our distinguished Russian colleague and our distinguished Ukrainian colleague – and the rest of us, because we’re all part of this conversation. I agree with our distinguished Russian colleague that, ideally, what we should aim for is that ...
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By | 23 June, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

United States nameplate in the Hofburg Congress Center's Neuer Saal, the location of many OSCE Permanent Council Meetings, Vienna, March 9, 2016. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

On the Observer Mission at the Russian Checkpoints at Gukovo and Donetsk: Statement to the PC

The United States warmly welcomes Colonel Flavien Schaller to the Permanent Council, and thanks him for his informative report on the OSCE Observer Mission at the Russian Checkpoints of Gukovo and Donetsk. Colonel Schaller, we also wish to express our appreciation for your own and your team’s work in difficult and restrictive conditions. The United ...
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By | 16 June, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

A TV camera positioned in front of a backdrop with OSCE logos prior to a news conference at the Hofburg in Vienna. (OSCE, Mikhail Evstafiev)

Response to Russia on the Observer Mission at the Russian Checkpoints at Gukovo and Donetsk: Statement to the PC

I’d like to respond to some of the comments made by our distinguished Russian colleague. First, the repeated claim that observation of the international border between Russia and Ukraine is only possible because of a goodwill gesture of the Russian Federation: our Ukrainian colleague has just recalled the sequence of events, and the fact that ...
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By | 16 June, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

OSCE flag outside the Hofburg Congress Center in Vienna, Austria (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

Right of Replies to Russia on its Ongoing Violations in Ukraine: Statement to the PC

Our distinguished colleague raised a couple of points from the previous item on our agenda, and I wanted to respond here. First, with respect to the citation of President Putin’s words in the TV news conference, where he said that Russia had been engaged in the “military sphere,” I will go back and look at ...
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By | 9 June, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

OSCE monitors in eastern Ukraine.

On Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine: Statement to the PC

As the Secretary General warned last week, the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine is being subjected to a “deliberate effort to blind it.”  Within a single week, combined Russian-separatist forces shot down the SMM’s two long-range UAVs near Horlivka, and threatened to shoot down a mini-UAV sent by the SMM to search for wreckage of ...
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By | 9 June, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

OSCE monitors in eastern Ukraine (OSCE file photo/2015)

On Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine: Statement to the PC

The United States is deeply concerned about the deteriorating situation in the conflict zone in eastern Ukraine. Combined Russian-separatist forces have stepped up the violence, fired banned heavy weapons from civilian areas, and have continued to obstruct the work of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission, including threatening monitors, shooting down an SMM UAV, and disabling ...
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By | 2 June, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Astrid Thors at 20th Anniversary of The Hague Recommendations Regarding the Education Rights of National Minorities, The Hague, April 21, 2016. (OSCE/HCNM)

Response to the Report by OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Astrid Thors: Statement to the PC

High Commissioner Thors, the United States welcomes you back to the Permanent Council after an especially busy and productive period.  Your report today and the country visits you have made in the past six months demonstrate a commitment to carry out your work wherever needed. The United States very much values your engagement throughout the ...
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By | 2 June, 2016 | Topics: National Minorities, Statements | Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

OSCE monitors talking to locals in Stanytsia Luhanska, Luhansk region, March 18, 2016. (OSCE/Evgeniy Maloletka)

On Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine: Statement to the PC

Despite efforts to build on the Easter ceasefire recommitment and create a better security environment, this week began with the highest casualties incurred since August of last year. The security zone in eastern Ukraine continues to be defined by tension and instability, as Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) Deputy Chief Monitor Alexander Hug said this week. ...
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By | 26 May, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

Ukrainian jailed military officer Nadiya Savchenko sits in a cage at a court room in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, March 4, 2015. (AP Photo/Ivan Sekretarev)

On the Return of Nadiya Savchenko to Ukraine: Statement to the PC

The United States warmly welcomes Nadiya Savchenko’s release and return to Ukraine. Nearly two years ago, she was abducted in eastern Ukraine and smuggled against her will into Russia. Ms. Savchenko endured relentless interrogations, solitary confinement, and forced “psychiatric evaluation.”  Through it all, she remained steadfast, resilient, and loyal to her country. The return of ...
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By | 26 May, 2016 | Topics: Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,

OSCE emblem at the entrance to the Hofburg Congress Center, Vienna. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

On the Extension of the Project Coordinator in Ukraine: Statement to the PC

In connection with the adoption of the Decision for the Extension of the Mandate of the OSCE Project Coordinator in Ukraine, the United States would like to make the following interpretative statement under paragraph IV.1(A)6 of the OSCE Rules of Procedure: The United States notes that Crimea remains an integral and internationally-recognized part of Ukraine, ...
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By | 26 May, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Statements | Tags:

Flags with the OSCE logo in Russian and English in front of the Hofburg in Vienna. (OSCE/Mikhail Evstafiev)

Replies to Russia on its Ongoing Violations in Ukraine: Statement to the PC

Reply 1: I appreciate the question from our distinguished Russian colleague and I think it gets right to the heart of Russia’s fundamental misunderstanding of the situation. Our distinguished Russian colleague has the unfortunate responsibility to represent a regime, an authoritarian regime, that has invaded a neighboring state. That is totally different from invited assistance ...
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By | 26 May, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Statements, Ukraine Crisis | Tags: ,