The OSCE has condemned Russia's decision to recognize parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine as independent and called for the decision to be cancelled, the OSCE website has reported. This was reported by the agency's website.

OSCE acting head and Polish Foreign Minister Zbigniew Rau, OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid, OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President Margareta Cederfelt (MP, Sweden) and OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Secretary General Montella Roberto awarded Russia's decision to recognize certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine as independent.

"This step violates international law and fundamental OSCE principles and contradicts the Minsk agreements. Like all OSCE participating States, Russia has committed itself to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of others. We call on Russia to rescind this decision immediately. Recognition will only increase further tensions and separate the population living in these regions from the rest of their country, Ukraine," the statement reads.