Update:
Scroll to the bottom to read the Joint Statement released by the United States, the European Union, Ukraine, and Russia.
Original Post:
Several news sources are reporting a breakthrough in the Ukraine crisis.
Some details from The Hill:
Secretary of State John Kerry said the framework hashed out by foreign ministers meeting in Geneva would disarm separatist militants in eastern Ukraine, and have them vacate government buildings, streets and squares they have occupied.
In return, the Ukrainian government has offered amnesty to all pro-Russian militants who lay down their arms, with the exception of those who had committed capital crimes.
The Ukrainian government has also “committed to going as far as they can to reach out to opponents” as part of a “comprehensive, inclusive process” ahead of next month’s elections.
That will include consideration of constitutional amendments that could give Ukraine’s Eastern regions greater autonomy.
The deal appeared to represent a major diplomatic victory just as Ukraine was approaching the brink of all-out civil war.
It also has the potential to ease tensions between the U.S. and Russia, as the U.S. was threatening further sanctions against Russia in response to separatist actions in Ukraine.
But Kerry urged caution:
But while Kerry agreed the agreement is a “good day’s work,” he said leaders understood that so far it’s only “words on paper.”
“What is important is that these words are translated immediately into actions,” Kerry said. He also vowed that if the U.S. did not see a response from the pro-Russian militants within Ukraine by the weekend, “we will have no choice to impose further costs on Russia.”
“We worked hard and we worked in good faith in order to narrow our real differences… and find a way forward for the people of Ukraine,” Kerry added. “The parties agreed today that all sides must refrain from the use of violence, intimidation, or provocative actions.”
While I hope for the best, note the question mark in the title and the use of “end” and “de-escalate” by the news sources. Call me a hopeful cynic.
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Added:
Geneva Joint Statement released by the United States, the European Union, Ukraine, and Russia:
The Geneva meeting on the situation in Ukraine agreed on initial concrete steps to de-escalate tensions and restore security for all citizens.
All sides must refrain from any violence, intimidation or provocative actions. The participants strongly condemned and rejected all expressions of extremism, racism and religious intolerance, including anti-semitism.
All illegal armed groups must be disarmed; all illegally seized buildings must be returned to legitimate owners; all illegally occupied streets, squares and other public places in Ukrainian cities and towns must be vacated.
Amnesty will be granted to protestors and to those who have left buildings and other public places and surrendered weapons, with the exception of those found guilty of capital crimes.
It was agreed that the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission should play a leading role in assisting Ukrainian authorities and local communities in the immediate implementation of these de-escalation measures wherever they are needed most, beginning in the coming days. The U.S., E.U. and Russia commit to support this mission, including by providing monitors.
The announced constitutional process will be inclusive, transparent and accountable. It will include the immediate establishment of a broad national dialogue, with outreach to all of Ukraine’s regions and political constituencies, and allow for the consideration of public comments and proposed amendments.
The participants underlined the importance of economic and financial stability in Ukraine and would be ready to discuss additional support as the above steps are implemented.
Lead photo: Secretary of State Kerry at Geneva meetings (Photo: State Department)
