KUALA LUMPUR – Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has joined the chorus of condemnation against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, calling for an end of the attacks before more innocent lives are lost.
In a brief statement today, Anwar said he stood in line with the international community who have strongly disapproved of Russia’s military advances into the neighbouring country.
“A military conflict at this time brings no benefit to anyone.
“This military action will lead to tragic loss of innocent lives, regional instability and further disruption of the global economy, which suffered during the Covid-19 pandemic,” Anwar wrote.
He said simply marching into another country armed while seeking for peace is not how international relations are carried out, and that it has never been a viable option in today’s modern world.
Anwar, in offering up his prayers for affected Ukrainians caught in the crossfire, called for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob to clarify Malaysia’s stand on the conflict.
“I call for an immediate end to the attacks and a renewed diplomatic effort across all channels and avenues to seek a swift return to peace.
“Prime Minister Ismail Sabri must clarify Malaysia’s position on this aggression,” he wrote.
Earlier this morning, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation in the eastern region of Ukraine, claiming the move was an act of self-defence and one to demilitarise the country.
Hours following Putin’s announcement, reports of explosions being heard in capital Kyiv and other major Ukrainian cities trickled in with the country imposing a nationwide state of emergency just hours prior.
Russia’s neighbour China has said they are watching the situation “closely” and has called for restraint on all sides, despite refusing to label it as an “invasion” by the Russians.
Several hours ago, Ukraine, a former soviet-ruled nation, officially severed its bilateral ties with Russia.
Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg had also denounced Putin’s strong-armed tactics, calling it a “reckless and unprovoked attack” on Ukraine.
Ismail Sabri earlier today assured the safety of Malaysians currently in Ukraine, expressing the government’s sadness over the military actions. – The Vibes, February 24, 2022
