Ukraine crisis:Can't afford military escalation, India at UNSC meet

The United Nations Security Council is conducting an emergency meeting on the Ukraine crisis. The European Union called Russia's move a blatant violation of international law, the territorial integrity of Ukraine and the Minsk agreements". UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, too, said that he considers Russia’s decision to be “a violation of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine and inconsistent with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations”. Meanwhile US President Joe Biden signed an executive order to prohibit trade and investment between US individuals.

I have signed an Executive Order to deny Russia the chance to profit from its blatant violations of international law. We are continuing to closely consult with Allies and partners, including Ukraine, on next steps. pic.twitter.com/ZS81ivAPgs

— President Biden (@POTUS) February 22, 2022

Indian representative at the UNSC meeting TS Tirumurti says: "Immediate priority is de-escalation [of Russia-Ukraine crisis]. We can't afford a military escalation. We call for restraint on all sides. We're convinced that this issue can only be resolved through diplomatic dialogue. We need to give space to recent initiatives undertaken by parties that seek to defuse tension." The safety and security of civilians are essential. More than 20,000 Indian nationals live and study in different parts of Ukraine, including on its border areas. The well-being of Indians is our priority: Indian representative at the UNSC meeting TS Tirumurti says."We strongly emphasize the vital need for all sides to maintain international peace and security by exercising the utmost restraint and intensifying diplomatic efforts to ensure that a mutually amicable solution is arrived at the earliest," he adds.

 "We urge Russia to step back," the United Kingdom appeals at the UNSC meet. The UK has also threatened 'significant sanctions' against Russia..Canada has slammed Russia and called its actions "unacceptable". "Russia’s unacceptable actions threaten peace in Europe and around the world and they will not be tolerated.