NEW DELHI: The Indian Embassy in Ukraine issued a new caution on Saturday, advising Indian people in the war-torn country not to travel to any border posts without first consulting the Indian authorities.

"All Indian citizens in Ukraine are urged not to travel to any border posts without first coordinating with Government of India authorities at the border posts (helpline numbers established) and the Embassy of India, Kyiv's Emergency numbers," the alert stated. In the early hours of Thursday, the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine escalated after Russian forces launched a significant assault on Ukraine, firing missiles at cities and military installations.

The Indian Embassy further stated that the situation at various crossings is delicate, and that the Indian Embassy in Ukraine is working closely with embassies in other countries to ensure that Indian citizens are evacuated.  The embassy is having a tough time assisting Indian people who arrive at border checkpoints without prior notice, according to the advisory. 

"Staying in western Ukrainian cities with plenty of water, food, lodging, and basic utilities is safer and more advisable than crossing border checks without fully understanding the situation," the advise stated. It also asked Indian citizens in the eastern part of the country to stay in their current residences till further instructions were given.

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