PM Modi Shares Key Insights on Ukraine Conflict in Crucial Call with Vladimir Putin, Reaffirms India’s Commitment to Peace
New Delhi, Aug 27 (PTI) – In a significant diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, just days after his pivotal visit to Kyiv, where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The discussion between the two leaders underscored India’s active role in seeking a peaceful resolution to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, reaffirming the country’s longstanding commitment to peace and diplomacy.
“Spoke with President Putin today. Discussed measures to further strengthen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Exchanged perspectives on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and shared my insights from the recent visit to Ukraine. Reiterated India’s firm commitment to support an early, abiding, and peaceful resolution of the conflict,” Prime Minister Modi posted on X, highlighting the essence of their conversation.
The timing of the call is particularly noteworthy, coming on the heels of Modi’s visit to Ukraine, where he held in-depth talks with President Zelenskyy amid the ongoing war. During their meeting, Modi emphasized India’s unwavering stance on the conflict, stating that India is not “neutral” but firmly on the side of peace. “We (India) are not neutral. From the very beginning, we have taken sides. And we have chosen the side of peace. We have come from the land of Buddha where there is no place for war,” the Prime Minister asserted, reinforcing India’s philosophical and strategic outlook on global conflicts.
The conversation between Modi and Putin touched on various aspects of the bilateral relationship, particularly the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia. This partnership has been a cornerstone of Indo-Russian relations, encompassing a wide range of sectors, including defense, energy, and trade. The leaders discussed ways to further enhance this partnership, despite the complex global geopolitical environment shaped by the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Modi’s reference to his recent visit to Kyiv during the call with Putin is a clear indication of India’s nuanced approach to the conflict. While maintaining its strong ties with Russia, India has also engaged with Ukraine at the highest levels, advocating for peace and diplomacy. Modi’s visit to Kyiv was a significant diplomatic move, signaling India’s willingness to play a more active role in global peace efforts.
During his meeting with Zelenskyy, Modi conveyed India’s deep respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, a principle that has guided India’s foreign policy for decades. “I want to assure you and the entire global community that India is committed to respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity (of states), and it is of utmost importance to us,” Modi told the Ukrainian President, reiterating India’s consistent position on the matter.
The Prime Minister’s remarks also echoed his earlier message to Putin during his visit to Moscow last month. During that visit, Modi had urged the Russian President to return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy, stressing that “no solution can be found on the battlefield.” Modi’s diplomatic outreach reflects India’s balanced and pragmatic approach to the conflict, advocating for a peaceful resolution while maintaining strong bilateral ties with both Russia and Ukraine.
India’s diplomatic efforts come at a time when the Russia-Ukraine conflict shows little sign of abating, with both sides locked in a protracted and devastating war. The international community has been closely watching India’s role, given its historical ties with Russia and its growing global influence. By engaging directly with both sides, India has positioned itself as a potential mediator, committed to finding a peaceful solution to the crisis.
The conversation between Modi and Putin is expected to have far-reaching implications, not only for Indo-Russian relations but also for the broader geopolitical landscape. As the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, India’s role as a voice of peace and diplomacy is becoming increasingly significant. Modi’s recent diplomatic engagements underscore India’s potential to act as a bridge between conflicting parties, advocating for dialogue, diplomacy, and a peaceful resolution.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s conversation with President Putin, following his meeting with President Zelenskyy, highlights India’s proactive and principled approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. By advocating for peace and maintaining strong bilateral relationships, India continues to uphold its commitment to global stability and harmony. As the world navigates these challenging times, India’s stance on peace, sovereignty, and diplomacy remains a beacon of hope for a war-torn region.
