Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Supports Early, Peaceful Resolution to Ukraine Conflict in Call with Putin
In a recent telephone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his support for an early and peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Modi's visit to Kyiv, the first by an Indian prime minister in Ukraine's modern history, took place amidst escalating tensions following the war launched by Moscow in February 2022.
During the call, Modi and Putin discussed ways to strengthen the partnership between their countries, with Modi reaffirming India's commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The Kremlin, however, provided no specific details about the conversation.
Modi's visit to Ukraine followed a previous trip to Russia, where he faced criticism for embracing Putin on the same day as a deadly missile strike on a children's hospital. The United States expressed concerns about India's ties with Russia, as Washington seeks to bolster its relationship with New Delhi to counter China's regional influence.
While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed support for India hosting a peace summit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has ruled out talks following Ukraine's incursion into Russia's Kursk region. Despite its close economic and defense ties to Moscow, India has refrained from criticizing Russia over the invasion and has increased its oil purchases from the country.
Ukraine has called on India to help rebuild its economy and attract investment from Indian companies. Modi also discussed his Ukraine visit with U.S. President Joe Biden, highlighting the importance of diplomatic relations in addressing global conflicts.
In conclusion, Modi's support for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict underscores India's diplomatic efforts to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics. The country's strategic partnerships with both Russia and the United States play a crucial role in shaping its foreign policy decisions and economic interests. By engaging with key stakeholders and balancing competing interests, India aims to contribute to stability and peace in the region while safeguarding its national priorities and security.