OSCE SMM prevented from monitoring two populated localities in Luhansk region for several days because of mines

The OSCE Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) has been prevented from monitoring the area of Zolote and Pervomaisk in Luhansk region because of possible mines.

"SMM is ready/able to monitor, but prevented. Today again no security guarantees from the Ukrainian Armed Forces and 'LPR' [possible mines] in Zolote/Pervomaisk area," the OSCE SMM said on Twitter on Thursday.

The mission posted similar statements over the two previous days.

Zolote is one of the three pilot areas designated for the disengagement of hardware and forces in Donbas.