Seven international military observers linked to the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), held captive by pro-Russian activists in eastern Ukraine, were freed Saturday, a media report said.
The observers were held captive April 25 and were seized from the the town of Sloviansk in eastern Ukraine.
The five Ukrainian officers who were also held captives alongside the seven observers have also been freed, the BBC reported.
The development comes as the Ukrainian government Friday launched a full-scale operation in Sloviansk, using aircraft and launching troops against pro-Russian activists even as Russia slammed the move.
US President Barack Obama Friday had called for the observers to be released.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel had also said earlier that the release of the seven observers - four Germans, a Dane, a Pole and a Czech - would be "an important step" in easing tensions in the region.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app