File photograph: A Ukrainain tank in action.
At least 27 Sri Lankan nationals currently in Ukraine have refused to return back to the island, claiming they would rather stay in the conflict-stricken country than go back to Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka’s foreign minister G L Peiris told reporters this morning the nationals still in Ukraine “have indicated to us that as of now, they do not wish to leave Ukraine,” despite the ongoing Russian military offensive.
As many as 2 million refugees have left Ukraine in the last 12 days, according to the latest figures. More are expected to leave as the fighting intensifies.
Sri Lanka has refused to back Ukraine in the conflict and instead sought to deepen links with Russia, despite growing international condemnation and isolation of Moscow.
The island is facing a massive economic crisis that has left many facing soaring prices of basic goods.
