Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday called PM Modi over phone and the two leaders primarily discussed the Ukraine-Russia conflict and ways for restoring peace.
A Central government official statement read that while speaking to the president, the prime minister was informed about the latest situation in the region by President Zelenskyy. PM Modi, in turn, reiterated India's persistent position that "dialogue and diplomacy remain the only feasible paths to a durable solution."
India's willingness to give all assistance for efforts towards restoring peace at the earliest was also emphasized by the prime minister.
The statement further stated that the leaders also discussed the situation of India–Ukraine relations. "The leaders also reviewed progress in the India-Ukraine bilateral partnership and discussed ways to further enhance cooperation in all areas of mutual interest. They agreed to remain in touch," it added.
This phone conversation followed PM Modi’s remarks in an interview with Japanese daily The Yomiuri Shimbun, where he reiterated that India has maintained a “principled and humanitarian” approach to the Russia–Ukraine conflict. He noted that this stance has been “equally appreciated” by both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
“In line with this, both the leaders spoke to me to share their perspectives on the developments related to the conflict. I reiterated India’s principled and consistent stand and encouraged dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the conflict,” Modi said in the interview.
Responding to a question about India's role in brokering peace, the prime minister emphasized New Delhi's readiness to provide support for "meaningful efforts" towards securing an early and enduring solution.
“By virtue of our good relations with both sides, including key stakeholders, we can strengthen efforts dedicated to the restoration of an early and lasting peace in Ukraine,” he added.
The discussion with Zelenskyy occurred amid PM Modi’s ongoing overseas engagements. He is currently on a two-day official visit to China for the SCO Summit, following his visit to Japan for the 15th India–Japan Annual Summit. At the SCO Summit, Modi is expected to hold important bilateral talks with President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Tariff tensions with the US
These developments come as India navigates economic tensions with the United States. Washington has imposed tariffs exceeding 50% on certain Indian goods, citing New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian oil as allegedly “funding the war” in Ukraine.
External Affairs Minister Jaishankar recently underscored that the government’s priority is safeguarding domestic interests. “What we are concerned about is that red lines are primarily in the interest of our farmers and, to some extent, our small producers… we are committed to defending their interests. That’s not something we can compromise,” he said.
