Russian embassy in Nepal says 80 Russian citizens sought help during protests

MOSCOW

The Russian Embassy in Nepal on Wednesday said about 80 of its citizens have sought assistance amid nationwide protests, but ruled out the possibility of evacuation flights because the country’s airspace remains closed.

“Currently, around 80 Russian citizens have contacted our embassy. All are in relatively safe conditions and their lives are not under threat,” embassy press attache Alexander Ivashov told reporters.

He said there are about 400 Russian nationals in Nepal and added that the mission is keeping detailed records of calls while urging citizens to remain calm. The embassy is in contact with Nepal’s Tourism Council, law enforcement agencies, and hospitals. “There are no records of injured Russians on any of these lists,” Ivashov said.

-Nepal unrest

Mass demonstrations erupted Sept. 8 in Kathmandu and other cities against government measures, prompting authorities to deploy the military and impose an indefinite curfew.

At least 22 people have been killed and more than 500 injured during the unrest, according to officials.

The government had earlier restricted social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp on Sept. 4 for failing to register with the Communications Ministry, but lifted the ban on Sept. 9.

Amid the turmoil, Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli has resigned from his post.