MEA Denies Claim that Russia ‘Stopped’ War for 6 Hrs to Evacuate Indians From Kharkiv

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) disputed on Thursday, March 3rd, that Russia had suspended the conflict for six hours on Wednesday to allow Indians to flee Kharkiv.

What Did India’s Embassy Have to Say on Wednesday?

The Indian Embassy in Ukraine issued two recommendations on Wednesday, advising Indians to leave Kharkiv as soon as possible.

“For their safety and security, they must leave Kharkiv immediately. Proceed to Pesochin, Babye, and Bazlyudovka as soon as possible. Under all circumstances, they must reach these settlements by 18:00 hours Ukranian time today,” the first warning was read.

The second alert, issued shortly after, reaffirmed the deteriorating situation in Kharkiv and emphasized the need for Indian nationals to “leave Kharkiv immediately repeat immediately.”

Several rumors’ and stories surfaced on Wednesday evening, claiming that Russia had ‘Stopped’ the war in Kharkiv for six hours to allow India to safely evacuate stranded Indians.

What Did MEA Have to Say About It on Thursday?

“Extrapolating that to say that somebody is holding off bombing or this is something we were coordinating is absolutely inaccurate.”” he continued.

PM Modi also spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday, their second phone chat since the conflict between Russia and Ukraine started. On February 24, Prime Minister Modi called for a “immediate cessation of violence” between Russia and Ukraine.

A number of news sites reported that the conflict had been briefly halted at PM Modi’s request, adding that the incident demonstrated the “power of Indian diplomacy”.

According to the MEA, a total of 18,000 Indian people have left Ukraine since the first advisory from the Indian embassy was issued.

“A total of 18,000 Indian nationals have left Ukraine since our first advisory was released. 30 flights under Operation Ganga have brought back 6,400 Indians from Ukraine so far. In the next 24 hours, 18 flights have been scheduled,” Arindam Bagchi, a spokesperson for the MEA, stated.

On Twitter, a number of people praised Prime Minister Modi and the Indian administration, stating that Russia had stopped the war for India.

https://twitter.com/eOrganiser/status/1499107356143386624?s=20&t=T15crUG58rDuWlu_qzKPXQ

Source: The Quint