External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar elaborated on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proactive efforts in facilitating the safe passage of Indian students amidst the conflict in Ukraine. During an insightful interaction with editors in Mumbai, Jaishankar shared meticulous accounts of the diplomatic engagements undertaken.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Jaishankar revealed that Prime Minister Modi personally engaged with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Specifically, Modi communicated with Putin twice and Zelenskyy once, emphasizing the imperative of securing safe transit for Indian students situated in Kharkiv and Sumy.
The complexities of the operations unfolded vividly as Jaishankar narrated them. In Kharkiv, a designated safe zone for evacuation was marred by Russian gunfire, leading to a tense exchange. Prompt intervention by Prime Minister Modi, expressing concern over the safety of the designated area, resulted in a cessation of hostilities following assurances from Putin.
The situation in Sumy, however, presented a larger challenge. With reports of distant and automatic gunfire exacerbating the students' distress, the need for swift action became paramount. Despite initial setbacks where firing resumed as students attempted to board buses for evacuation, Prime Minister Modi's direct engagement with Putin and Zelenskyy bore fruit. Both leaders acquiesced to the proposed evacuation route, paving the way for a comprehensive agreement ensuring the safety of Indian students throughout their passage.
Jaishankar's firsthand witness to these diplomatic exchanges underscored the gravity of the situation and the efficacy of diplomatic channels in safeguarding Indian nationals abroad.
