STOPPING short of condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob today said Malaysia is seriously concerned over the conflict and urges parties to negotiate a peaceful solution.

“Malaysia is seriously concerned over the escalation in Ukraine and strongly urges all concerned parties to immediately take steps to de-escalate and prevent loss of lives and destruction.

“At this critical juncture, every effort should be redoubled to seek a peaceful and amicable solution to the conflict through dialogue and negotiation based on international law and the charter of the United Nations,” he said in a statement today.

He said Malaysia would continue to support such efforts in the interest of maintaining regional and international peace and security.

He added that 13 Malaysians had already been evacuated from Ukraine, and the Malaysian embassy was undertaking to evacuate the remaining eight Malaysians and two of their foreign dependents from Kyiv.

Russia launched its war on Ukraine on Thursday, and its forces closed in on Kyiv yesterday.

Latest foreign media reports state that fighting has broken out on Kyiv’s streets.

Malaysia’s early reaction to the invasion was noted by Ukraine ambassador to Malaysia Olexander Nechytaylo, who said a stronger response was in order.

“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 said in an interview on BFM 89.9 yesterday.

Putrajaya’s early response was on the assisting Malaysians in Ukraine leave the country.

Among Southeast Asian countries, only Singapore and Indonesia have strongly condemned Russia’s aggression.

Ismail today said the UN Security Council must “carry out its primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and stability”. – February 26, 2022.