Ukraine began the week by renewing accusations that Russia-backed separatists have escalated attacks in eastern Ukraine significantly. According to Ukrainian officials, cease-fire violations in the Donetsk and Shyrokyne areas over the weekend were more intense than they had been in the past few weeks. The second Minsk agreement was never fully implemented in eastern Ukraine ; some weaponry that should have been withdrawn is still being used, Russian forces are still present, and cease-fire violations occur regularly. Nevertheless, a baseline pattern of activity had established itself. The events reported along the demarcation line in the past few days are not out of pattern. However, Ukraine had a particular interest in showing that Russia is unwilling to cooperate in the implementation of the full cease-fire agreement ahead of a foreign ministers' meeting as the peace process evolves.