Russia-Ukraine war: Nepal opposes use of force, urges all sides to exercise restrain

As Russia-Ukraine break out into a war, Government of Nepal on Thursday issued a statement urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint. Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs underlined that as a member of United Nations, country believes principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity are 'sacrosanct', and must be fully respected by all member states. 

"As a member of UN, Nepal views principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity as enshrined in UN Charter are sacrosanct and must be fully respected by all member states," statement said.

"Recognition of Ukraine's Donetsk and Luhansk regions as independent entities goes contrary to provisions of UN Charter. Nepal opposed any use of force against a sovereign country in any circumstance and believes in peaceful resolution of disputes through diplomacy and dialogue," Kathmandu's statement ded.

Russia ws war against Ukraine

On Thursday morning, Russia under direction of President Vlimir Putin initiated a 'special military operation' in Ukraine's Donbass, to demilitarise its former Soviet ally. Reports of massive explosions, bombings, and attacks surfaced from across country including its capital city Kyiv, second-largest city Kharkiv, and or parts close to breakaway regions, Donetsk and Luhansk, apart from Crimea and  Black seaport of Odessa. 

In retaliation, five Russian planes and a helicopter were shot down, according to General Staff of Ukrainian Armed Forces. Meanwhile, reports have emerged that Ukrainian government has invited its citizens to join military line in order to support and help country in war against Moscow. 

Ukraine's Defence Minister, Oleksii Reznikov, said on Thursday that "Anyone who is rey and able to hold a weapon can join ranks of Territorial Defence Forces."

Meanwhile, India expressed concern over increasing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, saying that situation is in danger of escalating into a serious crisis that could jeopardise region's peace and security. "We call for an immediate de-escalation; situation is in danger of spiralling into a major crisis. If t handled carefully, it may undermine security. security of all parties should be taken into account," stated TS Tirumurti, India's Permanent Representative to United Nations to UN Security Council. "