India is playing a crucial role in seeking to resolve the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently undertook his first visit to Russia and Ukraine since the war began in 2022. During his visit, PM Modi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, advocating for peace and diplomacy to end the hostilities. There is speculation that President Zelensky may visit India by the end of the year.
Following PM Modi’s visit, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has arrived in Moscow to present a proposed peace plan from the Indian Prime Minister. Doval is expected to discuss this plan with President Putin. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that resolving the conflict must occur through dialogue rather than military means. He stated that India is prepared to offer its guidance in the peace process.
At the annual ambassador conference in Berlin, Jaishankar expressed skepticism about the conflict being resolved on the battlefield, highlighting the necessity of negotiations involving both Russia and Ukraine.
During his visit to Ukraine, PM Modi assured President Zelensky of India’s readiness to actively contribute to ending the war. Earlier, in Russia, PM Modi had conveyed to President Putin that “this is not the era of war.” PM Modi stands out as one of the few global leaders with strong relationships with both Putin and Zelensky.
President Putin revealed that he remains in regular contact with China, Brazil, and India concerning the Ukraine conflict. He also indicated his willingness to continue talks if Ukraine expresses interest.