The Minsk II Agreement Explained: A Comprehensive Guide
The Minsk II Agreement, also known as the Minsk peace deal, is a diplomatic accord aimed at resolving the conflict between Ukraine and pro-Russian separatists in the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. The agreement was signed on February 12, 2015, in the Belarusian capital of Minsk after months of negotiations between representatives of Ukraine, Russia, France, and Germany.
Since its signing, the Minsk II Agreement has been a subject of controversy and debate, with some parties accusing others of failing to comply with its provisions. In this article, we will take a closer look at what the Minsk II Agreement entails, what its provisions are, and how it has fared since its implementation.
Background
The conflict in eastern Ukraine erupted in 2014 after the ouster of then-President Viktor Yanukovych, who was seen as pro-Russian, and the subsequent annexation of Crimea by Russia. Pro-Russian separatists took control of parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, claiming independence from Ukraine and seeking to align themselves with Russia. The conflict has since claimed an estimated 13,000 lives and displaced over a million people.
The Minsk I Agreement, signed in September 2014, was the first diplomatic accord aimed at resolving the conflict. However, it failed to bring about a lasting ceasefire and was violated by both sides. Negotiations continued, and the Minsk II Agreement was eventually signed in February 2015.
Provisions of the Minsk II Agreement
The Minsk II Agreement comprises 13 provisions, each aimed at ending the hostilities and restoring peace to the affected regions. Some of the key provisions include:
1. Immediate and comprehensive ceasefire: All parties are required to cease hostilities and refrain from using weapons.
2. Withdrawal of heavy weapons: Both sides are obliged to withdraw their heavy weapons from the front line and create a buffer zone.
3. Amnesty and release of prisoners: All prisoners must be released, and an amnesty law must be passed to protect those involved in the conflict.
4. Constitutional reform: Ukraine must undertake constitutional reform to decentralize power and give greater autonomy to the regions of Donetsk and Luhansk.
5. Elections: Ukraine must hold local elections in the affected regions under OSCE monitoring.
6. Humanitarian aid: Assistance must be provided to those affected by the conflict.
Implementation and Challenges
Despite the signing of the Minsk II Agreement, the conflict in eastern Ukraine has not ended. Both sides have accused each other of violating the ceasefire, and clashes have continued. The withdrawal of heavy weapons has also been slow, with both sides accusing each other of not complying with the provisions.
Constitutional reform has also been a contentious issue, with some Ukrainians opposing any changes that could give greater autonomy to the regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. Local elections have yet to be held in the affected regions, and the question of who will oversee these elections remains unresolved.
Humanitarian aid has been provided to those affected by the conflict, but much more is needed. The ongoing hostilities have made it difficult for aid workers to access the affected regions, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only made the situation worse.
Conclusion
The Minsk II Agreement was a significant diplomatic achievement, aimed at ending the hostilities in eastern Ukraine and restoring peace to the affected regions. However, its implementation has been slow and fraught with challenges. Both sides must make a concerted effort to comply with its provisions and work towards a lasting peace. Only then can the people of Ukraine hope to rebuild their lives and their country.
