Foreign Minister GL Peiris says 27 Sri Lankans who are currently in Ukraine have indicated that they are willing to remain in the country for now.
Ukraine is in turmoil with Russia taking over several regions in the past two weeks.
Sri Lanka has also been using diplomatic channels to support the Sri Lankan nationals in Ukraine during the past two weeks.
Speaking during a media briefing held in Colombo today, Foreign Minister GL Peiris noted that the government is liaising with missions in or around Ukraine, Russia and Belarus to help the Lankans in distress.
Minister Peiris said when the conflict broke out, 81 Sri Lankans including 15 students were in Ukraine.
He said all 15 students and 39 others have left Ukraine since.
The Minister said, the Lankans have left to neighbouring Poland, Romania, Moldova and Germany.
The Foreign Minister noted 27 Sri Lankans who are currently in Ukraine have informed Sri Lankan officials that they do not wish to leave the country at present.
He said the Sri Lankan Embassy in Ankara continues to maintain contact with those in Ukraine at present.
He said 1,561 Sri Lankans, the majority being students, are in Belarus at present.
He said although Belarus is not on the firing line at present, authorities have offered support to any Lankans who are keen to leave the country.
He said the Sri Lankan Mission in Moscow is handling affairs including visa issuance for those in Belarus.
