India’s top envoy to the UN said the country has ensured the safe return of 22,500 Indian nationals from war-torn Ukraine, along with aiding in the evacuation of citizens of 18 other countries. India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations TS Tirumurti also expressed concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Ukraine after it was attacked by Russia on February 24.
Tirumurti was speaking at the UN Security Council briefing on the Ukraine war on Thursday. India launched special flights under ‘Operation Ganga’ to bring back Indian nationals including students stranded from Ukraine.
The top envoy said there was an “urgent need” to address the humanitarian needs of the affected population, as such action was guided by the principles of humanity, neutrality, fairness and independence. “India is deeply concerned at the current situation, which has progressively worsened since the start of hostilities. The conflict has resulted in civilian deaths; internal displacement of thousands of people and the outflow of more than three million refugees to neighboring countries. Humanitarian The situation has worsened, especially in conflict zones,” he said.
Tirumurti thanked the Ukrainian authorities and the country’s neighbors for helping to evacuate the Indian nationals. “We highly appreciate the facilities provided by the authorities of Ukraine and its neighboring countries to ensure their safe return,” he said.
Tirumurti also supported the Centre’s view of the need for an immediate ceasefire. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also emphasized that there is no alternative but dialogue and diplomacy. “We stand ready to pursue these objectives with the Security Council as well as the parties in the coming days. We continue to underline the need to respect the United Nations Charter, international law and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states “
Tirumurti also told the UNSC that India has sent over 90 tonnes of supplies to Ukraine and its neighbors as part of humanitarian aid since March 1. These supplies include medicines and other necessary relief. “We are in the process of identifying other such requirements and sending more supplies in the coming days,” he added.
The UNSC meeting on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine was requested by the United States, Albania, the United Kingdom, France, Ireland and Norway.
Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 24 announced a “military operation” against Ukraine and warned other countries that any attempt to intervene would have “unprecedented” consequences. According to UN estimates, the war has entered its fourth week, leading to a humanitarian crisis in which more than three million Ukrainians have fled their country.
(with PTI inputs)
read all breaking news , today’s fresh news And Ukraine-Russia War Live Updates Here.