NEW DELHI: India believes Russia has “legitimate interests” in Ukraine — a position that is opposed to the stand of the West on the latest crisis. Interestingly, China has opposed Russia’s intervention in Crimea , deviating from a long-standing support to Moscow in the UN Security Council A statement by MEA on Thursday said India is “concerned at the subsequent escalation of tension, especially in view of the presence of more than 5000 Indian nationals, including about 4000 students, in different parts of Ukraine”. However, when questioned, national security adviser Shivshankar Menon said, “There are legitimate Russian and other interests involved and we hope they are discussed and resolved.”However, the MEA papered over the NSA’s comment, calling “for a legitimate democratic process to find full expression through free and fair elections that provide for an inclusive society.” “India calls for sincere and sustained diplomatic efforts to ensure that issues between Ukraine and its neighbouring countries are resolved through constructive dialogue,” said the statement.India has been reluctant to criticize Russia in international forums, going back to its invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 when New Delhi refused to criticize Moscow.While China supported Russia on issues like Syria and Libya, it also called for respecting the sovereignty of these countries. Chinese President Xi Jinping was quoted last week by the official Chinese media as he weighed in on the Ukraine issue. Xi said, “At present, the situation in Ukraine is highly complicated and sensitive and has regional and global impact." Xi told Putin, "China believes that Russia can coordinate with other parties to push for the political settlement of the issue so as to safeguard regional and world peace and stability. China supports proposals and mediation efforts of the international community that are conducive to reduction of tension."