PM Modi in Ukraine: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Ukraine’s capital Kyiv on Friday (23 August) for a one-day visit. Six weeks ago, PM Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin. After this meeting, he is now going to meet President Vladimir Zelensky in Ukraine. The war between Russia and Ukraine has been going on for two and a half years, due to which a lot of damage has been done. PM Modi can take a peace initiative on this visit.
During his visit, PM Modi is going to discuss with President Zelensky the opportunities for cooperation in defense, economy and business sectors as well as science and technology. Narendra Modi is the first Prime Minister of India to visit this Eastern European country after Ukraine gained independence in 1991. This visit is also being discussed a lot in the Western media due to the Russia-Ukraine war. Before going to Ukraine, the PM had hoped that peace would be restored there.
India has maintained cordial relations with both Russia and Ukraine
Despite its traditionally friendly relations with Russia, India has maintained a neutral stance on the Ukraine war. After the war, India has managed to maintain cordial relations with both Russia and Ukraine. This is why President Zelensky’s invitation to PM Modi to visit Ukraine shows India’s growing stature on the global stage. By discussing with the PM, Zelensky’s aim is to get support and help regarding the war.
When did Zelensky and the PM talk about the war?
In December 2022, amidst the war, President Zelensky sought to talk to PM Modi. He sought India’s assistance for the proposed ‘peace formula’. At the time he sought India’s help, New Delhi was doing large-scale trade with Russia. Despite the sanctions of Western countries, India bought the most oil from Russia. Due to this, Vladimir Putin also got financial assistance in fighting the war with Ukraine.
Zelensky requested India’s participation in implementing the peace plan through a post on X. He also praised India for its humanitarian aid and support to the United Nations.
Prime Minister in March 2024 Narendra Modi PM Modi had talked with Zelensky focusing on strengthening India-Ukraine partnership in various fields. In the talks on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to a people-centric approach. He advocated dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward to end the war. He emphasized that India is fully ready for peace and will make continuous efforts to help achieve this goal.
President Zelensky expressed his appreciation for the humanitarian support provided to Ukraine by India. The two leaders also met during the G7 meeting in June this year. During this time too, India had advocated for peace in Ukraine.