Kiev

In a travel advisory to Indians, the Indian Embassy in Kiev on Sunday advised its citizens to leave Ukraine temporarily in view of the continued high levels of tensions and uncertainties.

"In view of the continued high levels of tensions and uncertainties with respect to the situation in Ukraine, all Indian nationals whose stay is not deemed essential and all Indian students, are advised to leave Ukraine temporarily. Available commercial flights, and charter flights may be availed for travel, for orderly and timely departure," read The Indian Embassy statement.

This is the second advisory issued by the Indian embassy after the first one on February 16. Sunday’s advisory further asked Indian students to contact the associated persons for flights back to India.

"Indian students are advised to also get in touch with respective student contractors for updates on charter flights and also continue to follow Embassy Facebook, website and Twitter for any update," the advisory said.

India has lifted restrictions on the number of flights from Ukraine but many students are staying put saying they cannot afford air fares that have soared.

Tensions over Ukraine have increased in recent months after Russia amassed troops along the border which prompted NATO to deploy its forces in eastern Europe.

The United States and Ukraine have accused Russia of planning to invade. But Moscow continues to deny such claims and maintains that it has no intention of attacking any country.