Zakharchenko asks OSCE SMM to warn about flights of their drones
DONETSK. Aug 22 (Interfax) - Leader of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) Alexander Zakharchenko suggests OSCE Special Monitoring Mission (OSCE SMM) Principal Deputy Chief Monitor Alexander Hug think over the possibility for the monitors to be escorted by the DPR officers for security of the mission employees.
"As for the security of the OSCE monitors in the Donetsk People's Republic, I suggested Mr. Hug mull the possibility of our officers to escort the monitors. Then we will be able to assume responsibility not only for the security of monitors, but also that some impediments and irregularities will not arise, while they are performing their functions," Zakharchenko told Interfax.
He has also made a proposal that the OSCE will inform the DPR representatives about the operation of their unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). "In this case no one will obstruct their work. Otherwise, our servicemen consider the UAVs as unidentified aerial vehicles, which can pose a threat to our residents. As it is known, the Ukrainian side has lately applied its UAVs not only for reconnaissance and further gunfire, but also directly for an attack, stuffing the UAVs with explosives," Zakharchenko said.
"We have discussed with Mr. Hug all the issues, which are interesting, on one hand, for the OSCE monitoring mission, and, on the other hand, for the Donetsk People's Republic. In particular, these were the issues associated with the ceasefire on the disengagement line. As regards this, I asked Mr. Hug for the OSCE mission to be more objective," the DPR leader said.
The talks were generally constructive, he also said. "We agreed to meet again after Mr. Hug will think over my proposals," Zakharchenko said.
As it was previously reported, OSCE SMM Principal Deputy Chief Monitor Hug arrived in Donetsk with an unplanned visit to meet with DPR leader Zakharchenko.
