New Delhi: The Indian Embassy in Kyiv has asked Indian nationals to leave Ukraine temporarily in wake of the current situation in the country amid speculations of an invasion from Russia.
The advisory was issued by the embassy particularly for students and other nationals who are staying in the country for non-essential purposes.
It further added that the “Indian nationals are requested to keep the Embassy informed about the status of their presence in Ukraine to enable the Embassy to reach out to them where required. The Embassy continues to function normally to provide all services to Indian nationals in Ukraine.”
The advisory has come at a time when the speculations of an invasion by the Russian side. Although according to a report by the news agency AFP, Russian President Vladimir Putin has not yet decided whether to go ahead with the invasion or not, the US has warned Russia of dire consequences in case of a full-blown conflict.
White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a press conference that “they are in the window when an invasion could begin at any time.”
However, she also asserted that the path for diplomacy remains available if Russia chooses to engage constructively.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that the US is “working closely with allies to mobilize robust international support for Ukraine, including a US-backed sovereign loan guarantee of up to $1 billion to support key reforms. It'll bolster Ukraine’s ability to deliver prosperity for its people,” reported news agency ANI.
While there is no clarity on whether Russia will engage in an assault on Ukraine, the US has been cautious as US President Joe Biden reiterated that a further Russian invasion of Ukraine would produce widespread human suffering and diminish Russia's standing, noted Jean-Pierre.
The US has been collecting support from the NATO countries to retaliate against Russia if required. At a press conference, Pentagon Spokesperson John Kirby announced that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is going to travel to Belgium, Poland, and Lithuania. He will discuss Russia’s military build-up in and around Ukraine with the NATO allies.