New Delhi: India on Tuesday said the escalating tension along the border between Russia and Ukraine a "matter of deep concern".
India voiced out after Russian President Vladimir Putin recognised the independence of two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine.
The developments in the area could potentially undermine peace and security in the region, India said at the emergency meeting of UN Security Council (UNSC) called following Putin's approval of two separatist regions in Ukraine.
Alongside, India told the parties to the crisis that de-escalation of the Russia-Ukraine crisis should be the immediate priority.
"The escalation of tension along the border of Ukraine with the Russian Federation is a matter of deep concern. These developments have the potential to undermine peace and security of the region," India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, T S Tirumurti, said at the UNSC meeting on Tuesday.
India welcomed the intense efforts underway to diffuse tension through Trilateral Contact Group and under the Normandy format.
Alongside, India rammed home concerns about the safety and security of civilians.
"Safety and security of civilians is essential. More than 20,000 Indian students and nationals live and study in different parts of Ukraine, including in its border areas. The well-being of Indians is of priority to us," Tirumurti said.
During the meeting India urged all sides to reach an amicable solution for the crisis.