Emotional German ForMin at Ukraine frontline

The former seaside resort of Shyrokyne lies directly on the Sea of Azov, which separates the Crimean peninsula annexed by Russia from the Black Sea.

Baerbock's trip to the region intends to send a diplomatic signal that Germany stands by Ukraine, which is facing an escalation of aggression from its Russian neighbors.

Baerbock also used the opportunity to rally support for OSCE Ukraine's mission observers.

Under the Minsk Agreement, the OSCE has had a mandate to monitor the situation throughout Ukraine since April 2014. However, it is denied access to Crimea by Russia.

The mission comprises about 700 observers from 44 countries, including 43 Germans.