KYIV: As the war escalates in Ukraine, the Indian Embassy has advised Indians not to travel to the country and those already there, to vacate the country immediately.
"In view of the deteriorating security situation and the recent escalation of hostilities across Ukraine, Indian nationals are advised against traveling to Ukraine. The Indian citizens, including students, currently in Ukraine are advised to leave Ukraine at the earliest by available means." mentioned an official advisory.
This notification came out a few hours after Russian President, Vladimir Putin declared martial law in four parts of Ukraine that Moscow had annexed. He also gave all regional governors in Russia emergency powers that opened the door for enforcing new restrictions throughout the country.
Following the lack of any positive change in the war situation, the Indian Government issued another advisory at the beginning of the month. This advisory told the Indian citizens not to travel to Ukraine or within the country until it is absolutely essential.
Ukraine is a popular destination for students of the Indian subcontinent as well as Africa for its relatively affordable medical education. So when the war broke out between the two neighboring countries, a huge number of Indian students found themselves in a very bad situation. Although a small number were able to leave the country on time, many were still caught in the war. They were later evacuated via the neighboring countries.
In the month of September, Vladimir Putin ordered the mobilization of army reservists. After this, several Ukrainian cities, including the capital of Kyiv, were bombed regularly. Ukraine has claimed that these raids have caused massive loss of lives, including civilians. Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, mentioned that there is no space left for any talks with Russia.
Meanwhile, the European Union has further tightened sanctions against Russia over the past few days.
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