"The significant increase of ceasefire violations in the Donetsk region represents an unprecedented level of violence since the sides recommitted to the ceasefire in 2015. We back the call by Special Representative of the Federal Government of Germany for the OSCE Chairmanship, Gernot Erler, and urge all sides to take steps to de-escalate the situation and to fully honour their commitments," the statement reads.

The EU says a sustainable ceasefire is urgently needed, not least to ensure progress in implementing the political obligations from the Minsk agreements.

Read alsoCivilian wounded in militants artillery attack on Maryinka The EU went on to say that "recent incidents of targeting the OSCE SMM monitors are unacceptable. We call on all sides to refrain from such actions."

The EU also said it continues to support the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and the diplomatic efforts within the Normandy format and the Trilateral Contact Group aiming at complete implementation of the Minsk agreements.

"Security on the ground is indispensable for a lasting political solution," the EU emphasizes.