“Call For Immediate De-Escalation”: India on Russia-Ukraine Conflict 

India has said that the hostility between Russia and Ukraine could spiral into a major crisis if it is not checked. Russian President Vladimir Putin this morning announced a “military operation” into separatist-controlled areas in eastern Ukraine, which Russia has formally recognized as independent nations. 

India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations TS Tirumurti said that the situation is in danger of spiraling into a major crisis. If not handled carefully, the peace and security of the region may be compromised.  

During the UNSC meeting, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres directly appealed to Putin to ‘stop your troops from attacking Ukraine,’ the Russian leader announced a military operation in eastern Ukraine. 

India calls for immediate de-escalation and refraining from further action that could worsen the situation. We call on all parties to exert more significant efforts to bridge divergent interests, Mr. Tirumurti said, adding that the legitimate security interests of all parties should be taken into account. 

Ukraine believes that the Russian forces will not stop and confine to the two breakaway areas. Mr. Trimurti emphasized the need for all sides to maintain peace and security by exercising restraint. He added that the solution lies in diplomatic dialogues.  

Several explosions were heard in Ukraine’s capital Kyiv and the eastern port city of Mariupol. According to the news agency AFP, residents reported hearing artillery in the city’s eastern suburbs. People are leaving the city. The mayor of Kyiv has called on residents to remain in their homes.  

Jens Stoltenberg, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization chief, or NATO, denounced Russia’s “reckless and unprovoked attack” on Ukraine, warning it put “countless” lives in jeopardy.  

An Air India flight has been sent to Kyiv to bring back any Indian nationals. The Ukrainian airspace has been closed, so the flight is currently over Iranian airspace. This was the second special flight sent to bring back Indian nationals this week.

India has consistently advocated at the United Nations the need for peaceful settlement of disputes following the international law and agreements entered into by parties concerned. India’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine crisis is similar to it.

Published by-Aashay Bhujbal

Edited by- Subbuthai Padma

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