Editor's Note: At least for now, forces loyal to Kiev and pro-Russia separatists appear to be adhering to the cease-fire agreement that went into effect at midnight local time Feb. 15. According to reports from the ground and statements by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, most sectors along the demarcation line have been quiet, with the main exception being the area around Debaltseve. This was somewhat expected, though, because cease-fires rarely take effect instantaneously and fighting tends to taper down until it reaches a negligible level. As long as heavily contested areas remain vulnerable, especially the Ukrainian positions in Debaltseve, attempts to gain or maintain control of them will remain a potential source of new fighting that could eventually threaten the stability of the entire cease-fire agreement. Coming into effect at midnight, the cease-fire was broadly recognized by both sides.