Vietnam has voiced concerns over armed conflicts in Ukraine, calling for restraint from related parties.

Spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang of Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“We call on all parties concerned to exercise restraint, abide by the United Nations Charter and basic principles of international law, not resort to the use of force, protect people, continue dialogues and seek peaceful solutions,” Spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang of Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said.

Hang stressed the importance that Vietnam attaches to the Vietnamese community in Ukraine, requesting related parties to ensure the safety and legitimate rights of Vietnamese people and businesses there.

She noted that the Vietnamese diplomatic mission in Ukraine and domestic authorities are closely coordinating ready to launch citizen protection measures.

Concern for the armed conflicts in Ukraine is growing after Russia’s President Vladimir Putin declared to recognize the independence of two separatist regions Donetsk and Luhansk in eastern Ukraine on February 21, three days later, Russia ordered troops into two breakaway territories.

The moves have triggered concern and protest worldwide.

Facing the complicated developments in Ukraine, the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on February 25 asked the Vietnamese citizens to closely monitor the situation and follow instructions of local authorities.

People are advised to stay in place, prepare essentials, find a safe haven and carefully check luggage, vehicles, gasoline, and personal papers in case of traveling. They are also advised to keep in touch with the Vietnamese associations and friends to exchange information and help each other.

For further support, some phone numbers and emails are available, including +380 63 863 8999 and vnemb.ua@mofa.gov.vn by the Vietnamese Ambassador in Ukraine; +84 981 84 84 84, and  baohocongdan@gmail.com by the MOFA’s Immigration Department; +84 24 38240 401, extended 0, 100, or 141, 269, and email: vu1.ubnv@gmail.com by the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese.