India has expressed deep concern at the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine

Amid the escalation of hostilities in Ukraine, India has advised its citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to and within Ukraine and asked them to strictly follow the safety and security guidelines issued by the local authorities.

The advisory, issued on Monday, came hours after Russia carried out strikes against multiple Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv.

"In view of the current escalation of hostilities in Ukraine, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all non-essential travel to and within Ukraine. They must strictly follow the safety and security guidelines issued by the Ukrainian government and local authorities," the advisory issued by the Indian Embassy in Kyiv said.

The advisory requested Indian nationals to keep the Embassy informed about the status of their presence in Ukraine to enable the embassy to reach out to them, where required.

In New Delhi, responding to media queries, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Official Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "India is deeply concerned at the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine, including targeting of infrastructure and deaths of civilians".

He reiterated that escalation of hostilities "is in no one’s interest".

"We urge immediate cessation of hostilities and the urgent return to the path of diplomacy and dialogue. India stands ready to support all such efforts aimed at de-escalation," Bagchi said.

India has consistently maintained since the beginning of the conflict that the global order is anchored in the principles of the UN Charter, international law and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states.