Will Modi End the Russia-Ukraine War, Not Trump? Putin and Zelensky May Visit India

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Bhupendra Singh Chundawat

India’s increasing diplomatic role is in focus as discussions intensify over the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Recently, Polishchuk, Ukraine’s Ambassador to India, praised Prime Minister Modi’s position, saying, “We are very grateful that India clarified its stance from the very first day of the Russian aggression.” Modi had recently made it clear that India is not neutral, but firmly supports peace, diplomacy, and political dialogue.

Amid the ongoing war, the US has imposed tariffs against India, and former US President Donald Trump alleged that India’s continued oil purchases from Russia are helping to prolong the war. Against this backdrop, news has emerged of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to India. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Ambassador Alexander Polishchuk has also stated that Ukrainian President Zelensky may soon visit India.

Ukraine, once again, has appealed for India’s more active involvement in ending the conflict with Russia. Speaking to ANI, Ambassador Polishchuk said Ukraine views India as a key player in potential peace talks, given India’s longstanding relations with Russia.

Increased Dialogue Between India and Ukraine

Speaking on Ukraine’s National Flag Day, Polishchuk noted that talks between Ukraine and India have increased since 2023, and welcomed this development. He also appreciated PM Modi’s statement that India is not neutral in the war, but supports peace and diplomacy. He expressed hope that the ongoing dialogue will continue during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session in September.

Zelensky’s Upcoming Visit to India

When asked about Zelensky’s India visit, the Ambassador said, “Both countries are working to finalise the dates and topics for the talks. An announcement will be made soon.”

India-Ukraine Relations

Polishchuk wrote in ‘The Week’ that three Ukrainian presidents have officially visited India, while two Indian presidents have visited Ukraine. Until Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2021, bilateral trade had reached nearly $3.4 billion.

What Will Be Discussed During the Visit

He added, “After a long break, the first meeting between Ukraine’s President and India’s Prime Minister took place at the Glasgow Climate Summit in November 2021. Since May 2023, such meetings and telephone calls have become regular. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Ukraine on 23 August 2024 opened a new chapter in bilateral relations. This confirmed the leaders’ aspiration to move towards a strategic partnership. Today, the foreign ministries and diplomatic missions of both countries are working hard to implement this shared goal. During President Zelensky’s upcoming visit, a roadmap for strategic partnership may be signed.”

Speaking to ANI, the Ambassador further stated, “We expect greater Indian participation in the peace-building process in Ukraine. I believe that all our meetings will discuss how India can be directly or indirectly involved in political dialogue with Russia, especially given the long-standing relationship between Russia and India.”

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