The more detailed part of the agreement was signed by representatives of OSCE, Ukraine and Russia, plus two private persons – Mr. Zahhartšenko and Mr Plotnitski (factually representatives of the unrecognised «republics» but never named as such). The agreement promises ceasefire in the conflict area of Lugansk and Donetsk oblasts starting midnight of February 15th, an essential measure thereof being drawback of heavy weaponry from the front during two weeks so that, depending on types of weapons, there would be a minimum 50–140 kilometres between the two sides.
Also important is the «all for all» prisoners swap though far from unclear, for instance, whether that would oblige Russia to release the Ukrainian pilot Nadiya Savchenko illegally held there.
In Europe and the world, the agreements drew comments very cautious: in Ukraine, ceasefires have been declared before but they have not held. The main observer of the situation should again be OSCE – whose earlier such endeavours have not proven overly fruitful.
Glancing at the agreement, one notices that no Donetsk or Lugansk «people’s republics» are mentioned therein. The conflict area is Ukrainian territory where Ukrainian law applies. Local elections are promised (ergo the «elections», some time ago held by the Moscow-minded separatists meant nothing). Ukraine promises this year to ratify a new constitution, one considering the Donbas region peculiarities. A weighty item indeed is that latest by the end of this year, Ukrainian central authority must regain control of the state border.