You're reading: DPR, LPR against armed OSCE missions, doubt such decision possible

The self-proclaimed Donets and Luhansk people’s republics (DPR and LPR) are against the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) introducing an armed police mission to the region.

“As regards an armed OSCE mission, we are categorically against any foreign formations being present in the republic’s territory. This runs counter to the Package of Measures,” Denis Pushilin, representative of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), told reporters.

Such a decision would require replacing the OSCE mission in the region, he said. “This will require not just replacing the mandate but replacing the mission. The current mission is civilian and monitoring. Besides, even arming a police mission with pistols on the contact line gives nothing,” he said.

It is unlikely a decision will be made to introduce such a mission, Pushilin said. “This will require resolution by all 57 OSCE member states. There will probably be countries opposed to this,” he said.

The LPR, too, is against introduction of an armed OSCE mission. “The population will perceive any foreign armed mission as interventionists. There will be consequences for those who attempt to take up arms and stand between the warring sides. This will be an additional destabilizing factor,” Vladislav Deinego, authorized representative of the self-proclaimed Luhansk People’s Republic, told journalists.