Indians' safety in Ukraine top priority: India at UN

The US and allies had requested an emergency meeting of the UNSC following Russia's recognition of separatist territories in Ukraine as independent and deploying its troops as peacekeepers.

Speaking at the UNSC meet on Monday, Tirumurti stressed on the safety and security of civilians and said that the "well-being of Indian nationals is of priority to us".

He said, "Over 20,000 Indian students and nationals live and study in different parts of Ukraine, including in its border areas."

He further said, "Escalation of tension along the border of Ukraine with the Russian Federation have the potential to undermine the peace and security of the region.

"We call for restraint on all sides. Immediate priority is the de-escalation of tensions taking into account the legitimate security interests of all countries and securing long-term peace and stability."

"Constructive diplomacy is need of the hour to avoid scaling up of tensions," he pointed out. Emphasising on the diplomatic dialogue to resolve the current issue, India said, "Minsk Agreements provide a basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement. We need greater efforts to find common ground to facilitate the implementation of the provisions of the Minsk Agreements."

(With UNI inputs)