Ukraine's system of passes which regulates travel into and out of the army operation zone in Donbas has had an impact on people wishing to leave the conflict zone, the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (OSCE SMM) has said.

OSCE SMM Deputy Chief Monitor Alexander Hug told reporters on Wednesday that the crossing regulations were significantly limiting the ability of people to leave the conflict zone. He made the statement during presentation of the thematic report "Protection of Civilians and their Freedom of Movement in Donetsk and Luhansk Regions".

The Ukrainian government issued the temporary procedures for control over movements of individuals, vehicles and goods along the junction line in Donetsk and Luhansk regions because of the ongoing hostilities in Donbas, he added. OSCE observers are monitoring this process, Hug said.

He added that it was difficult for civilians to receive help, including humanitarian aid.

Another problem is how to receive documents on territories without local services and administrations, the deputy chief monitor continued. These factors are limiting the ability of people to leave Donbas. They have to wait for hours to file a travel permit application, Hug stated.