Ukraine Demands Transparent Investigation Into Nationals Detained in Mizoram
Ukraine has formally called for a transparent and impartial investigation into the detention of six of its citizens in Mizoram, India. The Ukrainian government has strongly rejected any suggestions that its nationals were involved in terrorist activities, while also accusing Russia of attempting to "drive a wedge" between Ukraine and India.
Details of the Detention and Allegations
The six Ukrainian nationals were detained by Indian authorities for allegedly entering Mizoram without proper authorisation and for suspected unlawful activities. An American national was also detained in connection with the same case. According to various reports, these individuals are accused of providing assistance to certain entities in Myanmar that are believed to have connections with anti-India insurgent groups operating in the region.
In response to the detentions, Ukraine's Ambassador to India, Oleksandr Polishchuk, recently met with Sibi George, the Secretary (West) in India's External Affairs Ministry. During this meeting, Ambassador Polishchuk formally requested consular access to the detained Ukrainian citizens to ensure their rights are protected under international law.
Ukraine's Firm Rejection of Terrorism Allegations
The Embassy of Ukraine released an official statement addressing the situation, stating: "Ukraine firmly rejects any insinuations regarding the possible involvement of the Ukrainian State in supporting terrorist activities. Ukraine is a state that faces the consequences of Russian terror on a daily basis and, for this very reason, takes a principled and uncompromising stance in combating terrorism in all its forms."
The embassy expressed serious concern over media reports suggesting that the action in this case was "prompted" by information provided by Russian authorities. Ukrainian officials described the situation as showing signs of a "possible orchestrated and politically motivated nature," implying external manipulation of the circumstances.
Reference to India-Ukraine Relations and Counter-Terrorism Cooperation
In its statement, Ukraine highlighted the strong bilateral relationship between India and Ukraine, noting that both countries have previously affirmed their shared position on combating terrorism. The Ukrainian government specifically cited the joint statement issued after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Ukraine on August 23, 2024, where both sides:
- Strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms
- Declared that there can be no justification for terrorist activities
- Underlined the need for enhanced international cooperation against terrorism in accordance with international law and the UN Charter
Building on this foundation, Ukraine emphasized that any allegations related to terrorism must be examined strictly on the basis of:
- Verified facts and evidence
- Transparent legal procedures
- Full intergovernmental cooperation between relevant authorities
The Ukrainian statement stressed the critical importance of objectivity, transparency, and impartiality throughout the investigation process.
Ukraine's Commitment to Cooperation and Warning Against External Interference
Ukraine expressed its readiness for active cooperation between its law enforcement authorities and their Indian counterparts. The statement specifically referenced the bilateral Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters between India and Ukraine, which provides for extensive cooperation through designated authorities in criminal investigations.
The Ukrainian government further clarified that "Ukraine has no interest in any activity that could threaten India's security" and alleged that "it is Russia, as an aggressor state, that seeks under every circumstance to drive a wedge between friendly countries – Ukraine and India."
Ukraine issued a warning that any attempts to use this case to discredit Ukraine or create distrust in India-Ukraine relations would be viewed as a deliberate effort to harm bilateral ties. The statement emphasized that relations between India and Ukraine are steadily developing and possess strong potential for further growth and cooperation across multiple sectors.
