Russia is ‘actively’ exploring establishing a humanitarian corridor for Indians residing in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s easternmost city, which has a large population of Indian students and professionals. Denis Alipov, in his first press conference since becoming Russia’s new Ambassador, praised India’s posture in the UN Security Council and stated that Moscow will probe the murder of an Indian medical student in Kharkiv.
Ambassador Alipov stated, “We are currently contemplating creating humanitarian corridors so that they can be evacuated through Russian territory.” The Russian envoy expressed his condolences for the murder of Naveen SG, who was shot and killed outside a store on Tuesday. He promised that an investigation would be launched into the circumstances surrounding the student’s death.
Following the death of a student from Karnataka, Mr. Alipov was called by the Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday. India has dispatched a team of officials from Moscow to Belgorod, a Russian city on the Ukrainian border. India has authorities stationed in Belgorod, but due to the Russian bombing, they are unable to communicate with their citizens in Kharkiv.
Ambassador guarantee a humanitarian corridor in Kharkiv
The Ambassador’s guarantee about the humanitarian corridor comes amid rumors that Russian soldiers had taken control of Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. If the current combat is interrupted for a short time, India is expected to evacuate its citizens. India’s stand at the UN Security Council, where it has abstained on a resolution on the ongoing violence, was also praised by the Ambassador.
“We appreciate India’s well-balanced stance.” India recognizes the magnitude and complexity of the current crisis. Mr. Alipov expressed his hope that India would continue to take a balanced approach.
Ambassador Alipov also reassured India that Russia’s readiness and ability to trade with India will not be harmed by Western sanctions. “Nothing has changed on our end. We have bilateral trade systems in place. It all relies on our Indian allies, some of whom are overly concerned about sanctions exposure. Mr. Alipov stated, “We are open to conducting business with India.”
“The S400 agreement would not be damaged,” the ambassador added, assuring that Russia’s military shipments to India will not be disrupted. “I can give you 100 percent confidence on it.”
Mr. Alipov stated that the Russian economy is performing well despite the sanctions when explaining the impact of the sanctions. “Our economy is stable, and we will be able to endure the pressures we are facing now and in the future.” He said that Russia is not employing illegal weapons in Ukraine and that the bombings are being carried out after warnings were issued to guarantee that civilians are not wounded during the continuing military action.