The cease-fire that took effect in Ukraine at midnight had been generally observed by noon, except in three directions, said Ertugrul Apakan, chief of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's Special Monitoring Mission.

The regime of artillery silence was observed during the first 12 hours with some exceptions, especially in Debaltseve, Raihorod and Luhansk, he said.

He also said that he had been informed about numerous unconfirmed reports about violations of cease-fire, but only cited data provided by the 20 patrols, sent to the line of contact immediately after the truce took effect.

Concerning Mariupol in Donetsk region, the Special Monitoring Mission did not observe that area and did not hear reports about violations of the ceasefire agreement there, either, he said, adding that the situation was calm around Donetsk.

Apakan confirmed that the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic had not allowed members of the Special Monitoring Mission to enter Debaltseve.