Stay Calm, Be Cautious -Ugandan Envoy Tells Citizens in Ukraine

Stay Calm, Be Cautious -Ugandan Envoy Tells Citizens in Ukraine

By URN

Ugandans in Ukraine have been advised to remain cautious, and seek immediate help about their safety as a Russian advance reached the Ukrainian capital Kyiv.

The advisory came moments after blasts and air raided sirens covered the capital that is under attack by Russian troops. The invasion began early Thursday with a series of strikes targeting government and military installations, followed by a ground assault from the outskirts.

Earlier today, international media channels reported hearing repeated large blasts coming from the South West of Kyiv as the number of the dead also continued to rise. Airports and military headquarters were hit first, including the main Boryspil international airport in Kyiv.

It is on the basis of this that the Ugandan mission in Russia has urged Ugandans in Ukraine to stay calm, monitor local news and follow the guidelines of the Ukrainian government following the invasion. According to a statement issued today by Ambassador Johnson Agara Olwa, the Head of Mission, Ugandans have been urged to notify the embassy immediately about their safety, whereabouts and the situation as it prevails.

“The Ugandan community is urged to notify the Embassy immediately about their safety, whereabouts and the situation as it prevails,” the advisory further read. Olwa also encouraged the Ugandan community in Ukraine to keep close contact with family and friends and provided contacts for those seeking help. They include WhatsApp +7 9671181035, +7 9671182773 and Telephone +7 4992302276 or +7 4992380068.

“It is our prayer that the situation is short-lived and that normality will soon be restored,” the ambassador added.

President Putin has frequently accused Ukraine of being taken over by extremists, ever since its pro-Russian president, Viktor Yanukovych, was ousted in 2014 after months of protests against his rule. Russia then retaliated by seizing the southern region of Crimea and triggering a rebellion in the east, backing separatists who have fought Ukrainian forces in a war that has claimed 14,000 lives.

The invasion is seen as terrifying for the people of Ukraine and horrifying for the rest of the continent, witnessing a major power invading a European neighbor for the first time since World War II.