OSCE observers came under fire in part of Luhansk beyond gov’t control

Open source
OSCE special monitoring mission (SMM) patrol came under enemy fire in the village of Zolote-5 (Mykhailivka, Luhansk oblast) on February 26, the press service of the OSCE reported.
It is reported that SMM patrol consisting of six members and two armoured vehicles was positioned on the western edge of Zolote-5, about 500m east of the eastern edge of the Zolote disengagement area.
The patrol was monitoring the security situation in the area to enable repair works to water pipes in Zolote-5.

“Despite security guarantees having been provided, at 12:18, the SMM patrol members who were standing next to their vehicles heard about five shots of small-arms fire approximately 200m west-north-west, followed by the sound of bullets flying about 10m over their heads," said in a statement.

After that, observers heard and saw the bullets hitting at least one tree about 5-10m south-east of the SMM’s position.

"The three SMM patrol members took cover on the ground and then inside their vehicles and saw the Luhansk Water Company employees taking cover behind a tractor," the OSCE said.

It is noted that the SMM patrol and the Luhansk Water Company employees departed the area. No injuries or damage to property were reported. The SMM patrol returned safely to its base in Kadiivka.
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