A total of 11 diplomatic missions in Nepal on Friday said they stand with Ukraine, its independence, peace, and freedom as the Russia-Ukraine war enters into a second year.

In a joint statement, the Australian Embassy, British Embassy, Delegation of the European Union to Nepal, Finnish Embassy, French Embassy, German Embassy, Japanese Embassy, Korean Embassy, Norwegian Embassy, US Embassy and Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Nepal said Russia’s assault on a free nation has destroyed schools and healthcare facilities in what has become the largest land war since World War II.

“For twelve months, the people of Ukraine have courageously protected their freedom, and the global community has unified behind them. After staving off Russia’s attempt to destroy their country, the Ukrainian people are prouder and braver than ever,” reads the statement. “We have no doubt, Ukraine will be victorious. Today and into the future, we stand with Ukraine, its independence, peace, and freedom.”

Earlier in March last year, members of the diplomatic communities and United Nations officials in Nepal gathered at Bauddhanath Stupa in solidarity with Ukraine which is facing invasion at the hands of Russia.

Meanwhile, a year after Russia began its invasion of Ukraine, the United Nations General Assembly has overwhelmingly approved a resolution calling for Moscow to withdraw its troops and put an end to hostilities. A total of 141 countries including Nepal voted in favour of the resolution and 32 abstained.