Taiwan is calling on other nations to support Ukraine's independence and promote peaceful solutions to de-escalate growing tensions in the country. That was the word from foreign ministry spokesperson Joanne Ou on Tuesday, in response to concerns that Russia may invade Ukraine.
Russia has gathered as many as 130,000 troops along the Russia-Ukraine border. Although Moscow denies planning an invasion, it has sent many supplies to the front lines. The US has warned that Russia could invade at any time and 23 countries are encouraging their citizens to leave Ukraine.
Russia is demanding that NATO deny membership to Ukraine, scale back military infrastructure in Europe and refrain from missile deployments near Russia’s border.
Taiwan says it is willing to provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine if necessary, especially since there are still Taiwanese citizens in the country. There are 28 Taiwanese students, visitors, and dual-citizens still living in Ukraine while six have already left. The Taiwan government is strongly encouraging the remaining citizens to leave.
Ou says most of these Taiwanese citizens are making plans to leave the country or move towards the western border where there is less risk of danger. She says Taiwan cannot force them to leave Ukraine and will provide any help necessary for their safety.
Despite outsiders drawing comparisons, Ou says the tension between China and Taiwan is quite different than the situation in Ukraine. She reminded the public to beware of fake news sources and to trust the reliability of official government announcements.