Ukrainian envoy urges Malaysia to clarify its stand on Russian invasion

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ukrainian envoy is urging the Malaysian government to take a clearer stand as the invasion in Ukraine is against the fundamental principle of Malaysia’s foreign policies.

Ukrainian Ambassador to Malaysia Olexander Nechytaylo on Tuesday (March 1) said he had spoken to Wisma Putra regarding the government’s latest statement on the issue, adding that he was consistent in asking for a clearer stand from Malaysia.

“I have officially communicated with Wisma Putra regarding the latest statement.

“What is happening in Ukraine is contradicting the principle of international law, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, which is against the United Nation and Asean charters, and against the principle of fundamental foreign policy of Malaysia,” he told the media after the Expression of Solidarity event at the Ukrainian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.

He added that it was also time for the European Union (EU) to take in the country as a member of the bloc.

“We are receiving unprecedented support from the EU, and what Ukrainian people are defending now in Ukraine are the values that are enshrined in the EU flags.

“We believe that it’s time for the EU to take decisions because extraordinary time requires extraordinary decisions,” he said.

On Monday (Feb 28), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said he had signed an official request for Ukraine to join the European Union.

Zelenskiy had asked the European Union to allow Ukraine to gain membership immediately under a special procedure as it defended itself from invasion by Russian forces.

Nechytaylo, in his speech to over 30 foreign envoys, said that Ukrainians were grateful for the support given by the global community.

He added that over 400 civilians, including 16 children have been killed so far.

“All these crimes are being carefully documented for further legal proceedings in the International Criminal Court.

“We are bleeding, but we are fighting back with even more resolve,” he said.

“My words of particular gratitude to those, which provided much needed defence equipment, medical supplies, fuel, financial resources and refuge to save many lives and to keep us going.

“Ukrainian people will never forget your generosity,” Nechytaylo added.

Also present in solidarity with Ukraine was the US Ambassador to Kuala Lumpur Brian D McFeeters who said over US$1bil worth of military support had been channeled to Ukraine in the last year.

“We understand that talks are being held between both countries and we hope that it will lead to something, but Russian president Vladimir Putin has had false diplomacy before and we are worried about that.

“The US and other nations are putting in place very strong financial situations that will continue to be strengthened and detailed until President Putin ceases the invasion,” he said.