UKRAINE is hoping for a stronger position from Malaysia against Russia’s invasion, the country’s ambassador Olexander Nechytaylo said in a radio interview today.

Speaking on BFM 89.9 this morning, Nechytaylo said he had noted Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob’s statement on the start of Russia’s war on Ukraine yesterday, and hoped for a clearer position.

“We believe there is more room for a clearer position on international law and the sanctity of the United Nation’s charter.

“We have to be very clear who are invaders, who is the criminal,” he told BFM.

Nechytaylo was asked about the international community’s response and what Ukraine expected.

He said other countries need to take a strong stand on the invasion as it is not just about Russia’s aggression, but  also “the sanctity of international peace, the whole paradigm of peaceful coexistence”.

“Every international community member must be concerned,” he said, while urging countries to stop trade with Russia and disconnect it from the international banking system.

Ismail and Wisma Putra yesterday expressed “sadness over developments in Ukraine” and said Malaysia’s focus would be on the safety of Malaysians there.

Nothing has been said about Russia’s actions nor to condemn the attack.

The Malaysian embassy in Kyiv is preparing for the evacuation of 11 Malaysians. – February 25, 2022.