In the wake of escalating tensions between the former Soviet state, Ukraine and its neighbour Russia, which has placed troops, tanks, and bombers
along the border, raising concerns of an invasion, India has urged its nationals living in Ukraine not to panic.
In a tweet, India’s embassy in Ukraine stated that it is aware of reports of individuals not being able to board planes,
but that Indians living in Ukraine should not be concerned because extra flights are being prepared.
The embassy did not disclose when the additional flights will start flying.
The embassy would release details “as and when confirmed,” according to the statement.
In Ukraine,
there are around 20,000 Indians, including professionals, business person, and 18,000 students.
Because of the current situation in Ukraine, some students are concerned that all flights to India are
fully booked till next week, and that air rates may rise. Priyanka Chaturvedi, a Rajya Sabha MP and Shiv Sena leader,
has urged the government to make it easier for Indians, particularly students,
to flee Ukraine. She tweeted, saying: ” Indian students are facing difficulties in leaving the country following the
Indian government’s advisory to return to India, temporarily.
Flights booked are being cancelled while many others are unable to afford tickets back home as the air tickets prices are soaring,”
On Tuesday, the Indian embassy in Kyiv said in a statement to students to depart Ukraine if their stay isn’t necessary :
“In view of the uncertainties of the current situation in Ukraine,
Indian nationals in Ukraine, particularly students whose stay is not essential,may consider leaving temporarily,”
For the Indian Nationals residing in Ukraine and their families living in India necessary steps taken: To answer their inquiries control centres
setup at the Indian embassy in Kyiv and the Indian external affairs ministry in New Delhi. Establishement of a 24-hour helpline by the embassy.
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Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons, Aleksej Leonov
