Modi thanks Ukraine leader for help in evacuating Indian students

In his latest telephonic conversation with  Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on March 7, Prime Minister Narendra  Modi expressed “deep concern” about the festering humanitarian crisis in the war-scarred country and called for quick and safe evacuation of the remaining Indian students in Ukraine. President Zelenskyy updated PM Modi in detail about the conflict situation and the ongoing negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. PM Modi “expressed deep concern about the ongoing conflict and resultant humanitarian crisis,” said a statement by India’s external affairs ministry. PM Modi reiterated his call for immediate cessation of violence and underlined that India has always stood for peaceful resolution of issues and direct dialogue between the two parties. The Indian leader thanked Ukrainian authorities for their facilitation in evacuating more than 20000 Indian citizens from Ukraine. There are still over 700 Indian students stuck in Sumi. The Indian government has accelerated efforts and is in touch with both Russia and Ukraine to bring them back home safely. The Russian military has declared a temporary ceasefire and decided to open humanitarian corridors in several Ukrainian cities, including the capital Kyiv on March 7. Many Ukrainian cities have reported deaths and widespread damage as the two sides prepare for a third round of peace talks, likely March 7.