The Indian Embassy in Kyiv issued a new advisory for Indian Nationals today (February 26). It requested the Indian nationals in western Ukraine to stay there as it is relatively safer and move only after getting the clearance from the Embassy.
The Indian Embassy in Kyiv issued a fresh advisory for Indian nationals on Saturday (February 26), requesting them not to move to border posts without prior intimation.
“All Indian Citizens in Ukraine are advised to not move to any of the border posts without prior coordination with Government of India officials at the border posts (helpline numbers established) and the Emergency numbers of Embassy of India, Kyiv,” the advisory read.
It further said, “The situation at various border checkpoints is sensitive, and the Embassy is working continuously with our Embassies in our neighbouring countries for coordinated evacuation of our citizens. Embassy is finding it increasingly difficult to help the crossing of those Indian nationals who reach border checkpoints without prior intimation.”
It requested the Indian nationals in western Ukraine to stay there as it is relatively safer and move only after getting the clearance from the Embassy. It said, “Please note, staying in western cities of Ukraine with the access of water, food, accommodation and basic amenities is relatively safer and advisable compared to reaching border check points without being fully abreast of the situation.”
And those in Eastern Ukraine have been requested to stay indoors and in safer places and not move until further instructions.
Starting February 15, the Indian Embassy in Kyiv has issued multiple advisories for the Indian nationals to ensure their safety and wellbeing. It is also making all efforts to ensure they get proper food and accommodation.
On February 24, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation in Ukraine. Russian military forces are currently in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv.
President Vladimir Putin called Prime Minister Modi on Thursday (February 24) night and briefed him about the situation in Ukraine. In a statement after the phone call, PMO said, “Prime Minister also sensitised the Russian President about India’s concerns regarding the safety of the Indian citizens in Ukraine, especially students and conveyed that India attaches the highest priority to their safe exit and return to India.”
In a statement on Friday (February 25) evening (India time), the Indian Embassy in Kyiv said, “Today afternoon more than 470 students will exit Ukraine and enter Romania through the Porubne-Siret Border. We are moving Indians located at the border to neighbouring countries for onward evacuation. Efforts are underway to relocate Indians coming from the hinterland.”
As part of the evacuation plan, Air India will be operating flights on B787 aircraft from Delhi & Mumbai to Bucharest (Romania) and Budapest (Hungary) on Saturday (February 26) as special Government Charter flights to fly back stranded Indian citizens.
