Tue Jan 28 05:28:40 UTC 2025: ## Ukraine Skips Maha Kumbh Amidst Russia’s Presence, Condemns War Crimes
**Prayagraj, India –** The Ukrainian Embassy in India has announced that its ambassador will not attend the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on February 1st, 2025, citing Russia’s participation in the event. This decision comes despite earlier reports from the Mela Adhikari and the Ministry of External Affairs indicating the attendance of diplomats from both countries, along with several others.
In a series of posts on X, the embassy condemned Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine, calling it the “aggressor” and detailing alleged war crimes including mass killings, forced child deportations, torture, and sexual violence. The statement strongly asserted that participating alongside Russia would violate Ukraine’s principles. The embassy drew a parallel between Lord Hanuman’s unwavering stance against evil and Ukraine’s commitment to justice.
The Ukrainian Embassy’s statement contrasts sharply with earlier announcements suggesting the presence of both Russian and Ukrainian diplomats at the Maha Kumbh. While the Ministry of External Affairs had previously confirmed the attendance of diplomats from several nations, including Russia and Ukraine, the Ukrainian Embassy’s decision highlights the deep diplomatic rift caused by the ongoing conflict. The differing accounts leave questions unanswered about the official guest list and the implications of this diplomatic snub.
First Piper 