Ukraine crisis: India asks nationals to leave Donetsk, Lugansk

New Delhi: India today asked its nationals, particularly students, to leave Donetsk and Lugansk regions in eastern Ukraine which is witnessing frequent violent clashes. In an advisory, it also asked citizens in the other parts of eastern and southern Ukraine to remain vigilant about their personal safety and security. “In view of the security situation in Donetsk and Lugansk regions in eastern Ukraine marked by frequent violent clashes, Indian citizens, particularly students, are strongly advised to leave these regions as soon as possible,” the advisory said. According to officials, there are nearly 1000 students in these areas. [caption id=“attachment_1550539” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  A heavily armed pro-Russian rebel mans a newly erected barricade on the airport road of the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk. Reuters[/caption] Eastern Ukraine is witnessing a fierce escalation of violence between pro-Russian separatists and government forces over the past few days. Indian citizens should avoid non-essential travel to Ukraine for the time being and those who decide to travel to Ukraine should invariably check with the concerned Ukrainian Embassy about any new regulations including those requiring visitors to hold a minimum amount of cash to meet expenses for the duration of their visit and restrictions on use of credit and debit cards, the advisory said. The Embassy of India in Kyiv is constantly monitoring the situation and would be posting advisories on its website - www.embassyofindiaukraine.in-, the advisory added. In addition, Indians in Ukraine, especially students, are strongly advised to register themselves on the Embassy’s website and provide necessary contact details therein. This would facilitate the Embassy’s efforts in disseminating relevant information. The advisory will remain in effect till Monday, 16 June 2014. PTI