India appeals for ‘extreme restraint’ on Ukraine crisis in UNSC session

India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations TS Tirumurti presented the country’s position during an emergency session of the UN Security Council, called by Ukraine along with the US and UK, after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that he would separate Recognizing the independence of the regions. of Donetsk and Luhansk.

“We are closely following developments relating to Ukraine, including developments on Ukraine’s eastern border and the related announcement by the Russian Federation,” Tirumurti said.

“The escalation of tensions on Ukraine’s border with the Russian Federation is a matter of deep concern. These incidents have the potential to undermine the peace and security of the region.” Tirumurti called for “restraint on all sides” and India’s call for immediate de-escalation of tensions “in view of the legitimate security interests of all countries”. The call was reiterated and aimed at achieving long-term peace and stability in the region and beyond.”

He also reiterated India’s argument that the issue “can only be resolved through diplomatic dialogue” and added: “We need to give space to recent initiatives by parties trying to de-escalate tensions.” “

Tirumurti welcomed the “intense efforts” to address the situation through the Tripartite Contact Group and under the Normandy format. The Minsk Agreements provide the basis for a negotiated and peaceful settlement and require all parties to “make greater efforts to find common ground to facilitate the implementation of the provisions of the Minsk Agreements, including key security and political aspects”, he said.

The Normandy draft talks involve Germany, Russia, Ukraine and France, and the Minsk agreements were finalized in 2014 to end fighting in the Donbass region.

“We need parties to make greater efforts to bridge divergent interests. We cannot afford a military escalation,” Tirumurti highlighted the need for constructive diplomacy to avoid escalating tensions .

Tirumurti further reiterated India’s focus on the well-being of over 20,000 Indian students and citizens living and studying in the border areas of Ukraine.

“We emphasize the vital need for all parties to exercise the utmost restraint and maintain international peace and security, and intensify diplomatic efforts to ensure that a mutually amicable solution is reached at the earliest,” he said. Unlike most other members of the UN Security Council, India has stopped criticizing the latest actions of Russia, a close strategic ally and defense partner, on Ukraine’s borders.