Rebels Donetsk pull heavy weapons back

donetsk - Rebels of the self-proclaimed People's Republic of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine begin Wednesday with the withdrawal of heavy weapons. Warriors of the friendly People's Republic of Lugansk reported Tuesday that the withdrawal on their side of the front is completed by the Ukrainian army .

The withdrawal of weaponry is part of an agreement signed in February in Minsk. The so-called Minsk II should lead to a peace in Ukraine. The withdrawal follows a cease-fire which is largely respected.

The Ukrainian army is also engaged in the recovery of heavy weapons from the front. It was agreed that all weapons be withdrawn with a caliber up to 100 millimeters. The weaponry should be at least 15 kilometers from the front.