In what could be described as a bold move, Ukraine sacked the country’s ambassador to India on Saturday, along with several other top envoys to overseas countries.

The news was confirmed by the Ukrainian presidential website. Along with India, ambassadors to Germany, Czech Republic, Norway and Hungary were also dismissed.

It is unclear at the moment whether the diplomats would be tasked elsewhere or Ukraine has cut diplomatic ties with the said countries completely.

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Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, had tasked all of the country’s envoys to ramp up foreign support against the Russian invasion that has been continuing since February. The support includes securing war supplies and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

The Ukrainian ambassador to India, Dr. Igor Polikha, had appealed for help in the Ukranian cause against the Russian invasion to New Delhi. However, the Government of India took a near-idle stance, calling for peace calling for peace between the two nations and expressing interest to become the mediator, but did not partake in the US sanctions against Russia.

Since the US sanctions became effective, India has used the opportunity to buy Russian oil in a cut-price, countering the soaring prices of fuel in the international market. However, the move has been criticised by many in the international platforms, sparking debates weather India should take a more active stance against Russia.

The Ukrainian ambassador to India recently expressed his discontent over New Delhi’s policies regarding the Russia-Ukraine war in February. “We are deeply dissatisfied with the Indian position,” he said. 

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“We are asking, pleading for the strong voice of India. In this case, Prime Minister Modi ji can address Mr Putin. He can address our President. This is not the time for protocol bound statements,” he quipped. 

“Your officials said they are closely watching the situation. This means nothing. India is the founder of non-alignment. We plead for the support of India. It’s the moment of truth and moment of destiny,” Polikha added.

New Delhi is yet to issue a response regarding the matter.