(MENAFN- UkrinForm) The OSCE calls on Russia to return to compliance with its international obligations and end the war by fully withdrawing its troops from Ukraine. The organization is ready to provide a platform for a meaningful and genuine dialogue. That's according to the OSCE press service in response to a written request from Ukrinform.
"The OSCE response has remained steadfast, condemning Russia's actions against Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. Russia has been called upon realign itself with its international commitments and end its war, including through a complete withdrawal from Ukraine," the press service said.
The OSCE stands ready to "provide a platform for meaningful and genuine dialogue to de-escalate tensions, offering its unique experience, mechanisms and formats". At the same time, the participating states must "show the political will to use the tools available to them," the organization's press service emphasized.
It is also noted that the OSCE
is focused on supporting Ukrainian institutions, civil society and people to deal with a variety of challenges the country is facing, including through its Support Programme for Ukraine.
Ukrinform asked OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid to comment on Sunday's Russian attack on Odesa and the gross violations of its commitments by the Russian Federation, a member state of the organization.
"Unfortunately, the Secretary General is currently travelling and accordingly is unable to accommodate a request for comment at this current time," the press service said.
On Sunday evening, the North Macedonian OSCE Chairmanship condemned Russia's attack on Odesa. The statement was published on Twitter.
"Strongly condemning today's attack against civilian and religious sites in Odessa, resulting in new civilian casualties in Ukraine. We
reiterate
our
call to the Russian
Federation to immediately put an end to the agression,
and return to the principles and commitments of the OSCE," the statement said.
As Ukrinform reported, on the night of July 22-23, Russian troops launched a massive attack on the territory of Odesa and the region. The invaders fired 19 missiles of various types.
The strike hit the historic center of Odesa, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The night attack damaged 29 cultural heritage monuments of national and local importance, including the Transfiguration Cathedral.
One person was killed and 22 people were injured, including four children.