The Foreign Ministry of the Maldives has stated that discussions were being held on exploring possibilities of relocating local students in Ukraine to safer areas.

Ministry said that along with the Embassy of Maldives in Berlin, Germany conversations are being held with friendly nations as well to explore such options.

According to the Ministry, five local students are residing in Kharkiv, the closest main city to the Russian border, 14 students remain in Ivano-Frankivsk, on the eastern side and 1 more student remains in another city.

Ministry reassured that all the students in the three cities are safe, and they have enough food, water, and cash on hand. Ministry said that they are in touch with all the local students and will continue to provide the required assistance to ensure their safety. Ministry also said that they are closely monitoring the situation.

Russia and Ukraine crisis escalated as Russian forces fired missiles at several targets on Thursday Morning. Loud explosions in Ukraine were reported by the media.

Following the attacks, Ukrainian authorities have closed the airspace to civilian flights citing a high risk to safety.