Belize has become the second member country of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to express concern at the possibility of a full scale war in Ukraine as Russia continues to amass troops on the borders of the European country.
Belize, whose Prime Minster, John Briceño, is the current chairman of the 15-member regional integration grouping, said it is extremely concerned about the evolving security situation on Ukraine's eastern border, which poses a threat to international peace and security.
Belize is urging all relevant parties to exercise restraint and intensify diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the current tensions.
World leaders are stepping up efforts to reduce tensions over Ukraine as fears of a Russian invasion grow.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed hope that war could be avoided as he met Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
In Washington, US President Joe Biden hosted German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and said they were united in addressing Russian aggression.