Modi’s Firm Stance on Peace
During the high-profile meeting, PM Modi emphasized India’s clear position on the conflict. “India has never been neutral in this war; we stand for peace,” Modi asserted. He highlighted India’s ongoing efforts to foster dialogue and diplomacy as essential tools for conflict resolution. Modi reiterated that war and violence are not solutions, and stressed the importance of constructive dialogue for regional stability.
Zelenskyy’s Call for Action
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy praised India’s influence and urged the country to leverage its position to counter Russian aggression. “India will play its role. I think that India began to recognise that this is not just conflict, this is real war of one man and his name is Putin against whole country whose name is Ukraine. You are a big country. You have a big influence and you can stop Putin and halt his economy, and put him really in his place,” Zelenskyy told ANI.
A Gesture of Solidarity
The meeting between Modi and Zelenskyy was marked by symbolic gestures of support. Modi embraced Zelenskyy, and as they visited the Martyrologist Exposition, Modi kept his hand on Zelenskyy’s shoulder, symbolizing India’s solidarity with Ukraine.
Invitation to India Kyiv
In a significant diplomatic gesture, PM Modi extended an invitation to President Zelenskyy to visit India. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced this during a press briefing in Kyiv, stating, “Prime Minister Modi has invited President Zelenskyy to visit India. We anticipate that President Zelenskyy will come when it is convenient for him.” This invitation highlights India’s willingness to deepen ties and engage more closely with Ukraine.
Comprehensive Discussions
The discussions between Modi and Zelenskyy covered a range of topics including defence, trade, and agriculture. A key focus was the ongoing conflict, with both leaders exploring potential pathways to peace. Jaishankar noted that much of the conversation centered on the conflict and India’s role in future peace summits.
Humanitarian Support
In addition to diplomatic talks, India demonstrated its support through humanitarian aid, providing Ukraine with 22 tonnes of medical support equipment. Jaishankar emphasized this aid as a reflection of India’s commitment to addressing humanitarian needs amid the conflict.
Energy Trade and Geopolitical Implications
The discussions also touched on India’s energy trade with Russia, a topic of considerable geopolitical significance. The Indian delegation used this opportunity to clarify India’s position on balancing its relationships with both Ukraine and Russia. Modi had previously addressed the issue during his visit to Russia, stating, “Some time back, when I met President Putin in Samarkand, I had told him that this was not the era of war. Last month when I went to Russia, I said in clear words that a solution to any problem is never found on the battlefield.”
External Affairs Minister Jaishankar described Modi’s visit as a “landmark” event, reflecting the depth and seriousness of India’s engagement with Ukraine. The visit comes a month after Modi’s visit to Russia, highlighting India’s nuanced approach to the conflict.
Zelenskyy’s Reflections
Following the meeting, Zelenskyy took to social media to express his appreciation, highlighting four agreements signed between India and Ukraine covering medical aid, agricultural cooperation, humanitarian relations, and cultural exchanges. “India supports Ukraine’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity. And this is critical because everyone in the world must equally respect the UN Charter,” Zelenskyy stated.
