PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Embassy in Kiev is in the process of evacuating eight Malaysians and two of their foreign dependents from Ukraine, says Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

       The Prime Minister said 13 Malaysians had already left Ukraine in the past weeks.

       “Malaysia is seriously concerned over the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine,” Ismail Sabri said in a statement.

       Those listed for evacuation are the remaining Malaysians in the country.

       “We strongly urge all concerned parties to immediately take steps to de-escalate and prevent the loss of lives and devastation,” he added.

       Ismail Sabri also called upon the United Nations Security Council to carry out its primary responsibility in maintaining international peace and security.

       At this critical juncture, the Prime Minister said efforts should be redoubled to seek a peaceful and amicable solution to the conflict through dialogue and negotiations based on international law and the Charter of the United Nations.

       He added that Malaysia would continue to support such efforts in the interest of maintaining regional and international peace and security, as well as promoting greater prosperity.

       On Friday, Bernama reported that Malaysia expressed hope a resolution to the conflict through a peaceful settlement between Ukraine and Russia could be reached soon.