NEW DELHI: Amid concerns over escalating tensions along the border of Ukraine with Russia, the Indian embassy in Kyiv on Tuesday advised Indian students to leave the country.
The move came amid apprehensions by Western leaders that Russia was set to invade Ukraine soon as it deployed over 130,000 soldiers, heavy weapons and fighter jets along the Ukrainian border.
‘Students are advised to leave Ukraine temporarily’
The Indian embassy urged students to temporarily leave Ukraine rather than wait for an official confirmation from universities.
“In view of the continued high levels of tensions and uncertainties with respect with the situation iIn Ukraine. All Indian nationals whose stay is not deemed essential and all Indian students. are advised to leave Ukraine temporarily. Available commercial flights. and charter flights may be availed for travel, for orderly and timely departure,” it said in its advisory.

“Indian students are advised to also get in touch with respective student contractors for updates on charter flights. Continue to follow Embassy Facebook, website and Twitter for any update,” it added.
Special flights between India-Ukraine
The Embassy of India in Kyiv has also issued an advisory on the special flights on Monday, tweeting that additional flights are being organised “in view of the continued high level of tensions and uncertainties of the current situation in Ukraine”
“Four flights from Kyiv to Delhi to operate on February 25, February 27 and March 6,” the embassy said.

“At present, Air Arabia, Fly Dubai, Qatar Airways etc are also operating their routine flights from Ukraine to India. Bookings from these airlines can be done through respective airline offices,” it added.
Meanwhile, India has strongly emphasised the need for all sides to exercise the utmost restraint and intensify diplomatic efforts to ensure a mutually amicable solution.
Speaking on the UNSC briefing on developments in Ukraine, India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, TS Tirumurti said that the escalation of tension along the border of Ukraine with the Russian Federation has the potential to undermine peace and security of the region.