Modi, Zelenskyy spoke of peaceful resolution to Russia-Ukraine conflict

By Anjali Sharma

WASHINGTON – India Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday had a telephonic conversation with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during which he conveyed India’s consistent position on the need for an early and peaceful resolution of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict in Europe.

The development came 3 days after Modi spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Modi said in a post on X, “Glad to speak with President Zelenskyy and hear his perspectives on recent developments. I conveyed India’s consistent position on the need for an early and peaceful resolution of the conflict.”

“India remains committed to making every possible contribution in this regard, as well as to further strengthening bilateral ties with Ukraine,” he added.

President Zelenskyy in an official statement shared his views on the recent developments related to Ukraine.

“The Prime Minister thanked President Zelenskyy and reaffirmed India’s steadfast and consistent position for peaceful settlement of the conflict and support for efforts aimed at the earliest restoration of peace. PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to extend all possible support in this regard,” the statement said.

“The leaders also reviewed progress in the India-Ukraine bilateral partnership and discussed ways to further enhance cooperation in areas of mutual interest,” it said.

The phone conversation came after the ongoing trade tensions between India and the United States over India’s oil purchases from Russia.

US President Donald Trump increased tariffs imposed on Indian goods to 50 per cent, in what is seen as a sign of his frustration over failing to stop the Russia-Ukraine war.

Modi and Zelenskyy during the telephonic conversation discussed in detail the sanctions against Russia.

“I noted that it is necessary to limit the export of Russian energy, particularly oil, to reduce its potential and ability to finance the continuation of this war. It is important that every leader who has tangible leverage over Russia sends the corresponding signals to Moscow,” Zelenskyy said in a post on X.

Both agreed to plan a personal meeting in September during the UN General Assembly and to work on an exchange of visits.

In a post on X, Zelenskyy said, “I had a long conversation with the Prime Minister of India @narendramodi. We discussed in detail all important issues – both of our bilateral cooperation and the overall diplomatic situation. I am grateful to the Prime Minister for his warm words of support for our people.”

“I informed about the Russian attacks on our cities and villages, about yesterday’s strike on the bus station in Zaporizhzhia, where dozens of people were injured in a deliberate Russian bombing of a regular urban facility. And this is at a time when there is finally a diplomatic possibility to end the war. Instead of demonstrating readiness for a ceasefire, Russia is showing only its desire to continue the occupation and killings,” Zelenskyy further said in the post on X.

“It is important that India is supporting our peace efforts and shares the position that everything concerning Ukraine must be decided with Ukraine’s participation. Other formats will not deliver results,” Zelenskyy said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 8 via phone call reiterated India’s consistent position for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Europe and invited him to India later this year for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.