The Secretary-General welcomes the start of a cease-fire in eastern Ukraine as agreed on 12 February under the "Package of Measures for the implementation of the Minsk Agreements".

He notes that the cease-fire 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. However, the Secretary-General is seriously concerned over reports of continued instances of hostilities including in Debaltseve and reiterates his call for all parties to abide by the cease-fire without exception.

The Secretary-General reminds all of the significance of the cease-fire, which forms the basis for the broader implementation of the Minsk Agreements and to restore peace and stability to Ukraine.