UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the ceasefire in embattled southeastern Ukraine, saying there should be no exceptions to the truce between the conflicting sides, but voiced his concern over reports from the local Debaltsevo area.
The statement cites the UN secretary general as saying that "the ceasefire appears to be largely holding, giving a desperately needed respite to civilians trapped in the area and contributing to a swift and peaceful resolution of the conflict," Tass cited the communique of the organization.
"However, the Secretary-General is seriously concerned over reports of continued instances of hostilities including in Debaltsevo and reiterates his call for all parties to abide by the ceasefire without exception," the statement added."
The Secretary General reminds everyone of the significance of the ceasefire, which forms the basis for the broader implementation of the Minsk accords and restoring peace and stability to Ukraine," the statement added.