The Ugandan Embassy has called upon nationals living in Ukraine to stay calm in the face of the unpredictable security situation unfolding in Eastern Europe amid fears of a full-blown war as Russia launched an attack on Ukraine.
The advisory issued on February 25, 2022 however urges Ugandan citizens to be cautious, monitor local news for updates, and observe instructions as issued by the Ukrainian government during the ongoing situation.
On February 24, Russia’s forces attacked major Ukrainian cities, and the Ukrainian government closed its airspace to commercial flights due to Russia’s military actions.
For weeks, a number of nations have been advising their citizens to leave Ukraine over a possible move by Russia to invade. U.S also told its citizens in Ukraine to depart immediately if it is safe to do so using any commercial or other privately available ground transportation options.
Local reports on Friday indicated that over 100 Ugandans including students are stuck in Ukraine with them coalesced around the capital Kiev.
The advisory statement signed by Ugandan Head of Mission in Russia’s capital Amb. Moscow Johnson Ogala Olwa, also urges the Ugandan community in Ukraine to immediately notify the Embassy about their safety, whereabouts and the situation as it prevails.
The statement also provided Telephone contact numbers in case one wants to speak with Embassy officials. Ugandan nationals are advised to send messages on WhatsApp using +79671181035, +79671182773, or call +7499 2302276 +7499 2380068, Email:info@uganda.ru
On February 24, the Ukrainian government declared a state of emergency. Each province (oblast) will decide on the measures to be implemented according to local conditions. Measures could include curfews, restrictions on the freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections, among other measures. Follow any state of emergency measures imposed in your oblast.
According to the US advisory, the security situation throughout Ukraine is highly volatile, and conditions may deteriorate without warning.
The combat began when Vladimir Putin, Russia’s president, announced a “special military operation” to demilitarise Ukraine, thereby bringing large-scale war back to Europe.
The first day of fighting saw Russian forces pouring into Ukraine by land, sea and air, meeting fierce resistance from Ukrainian forces, leading to “heavy casualties” on both sides, according to British intelligence. Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine’s president, ordered a “general mobilisation” of men into the army.
The West reacted with sanctions. America announced it would freeze the assets of four Russian banks and limit high-tech exports. The EU will hit most of Russia’s banking market. The West, though, has so far declined to cut Russia off from SWIFT, the bank messaging network.
In the latest statement, Russia’s Valdmir Putin reiterates resolve for his country to defend itself against any attack and warned that for them, it is a matter of life and death and one of their historical future as a nation.
“Those who aspire to global dominance have publicly designated Russia as their enemy. They did so with impunity. Make no mistake, they had no reason to act this way. It is true that they have considerable financial, scientific, technological, and military capabilities. We are aware of this and have an objective view of the economic threats we have been hearing, just as our ability to counter this brash and never-ending blackmail. Let me reiterate that we have no illusions in this regard and are extremely realistic in our assessments.” Putin said.