PM Modi Arrives In Kyiv For Talks With Ukraine's Zelenskiy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kyiv for talks with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Friday, marking the first visit by an Indian leader to Ukraine since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The visit occurs amidst ongoing conflict, with Ukrainian forces active in Russia's western Kursk region after an incursion on 6 August and Russian troops making gradual progress in Ukraine's eastern areas.

This trip, following Modi's recent visit to Moscow in July, is seen as significant for Kyiv, which has been seeking to strengthen diplomatic ties with Global South nations in pursuit of a fair resolution to the conflict. Ahead of the visit, Modi expressed his hope to discuss peaceful solutions to the ongoing war, emphasising India's desire for an early return to stability in the region.

PM Modi’s July visit to Moscow coincided with a devastating Russian missile strike on Ukraine, targeting a children’s hospital. This event led Modi to subtly criticise Russian President Vladimir Putin, but also drew sharp criticism from Zelenskiy, who expressed deep disappointment in Modi for engaging with Putin, calling it a blow to peace efforts.

Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to the Ukrainian president, highlighted the importance of Modi’s visit to Kyiv, noting India's influence over Moscow. Podolyak stressed the need to build relations with countries like India to advocate for a correct resolution to the war, which aligns with global interests.

India, which maintains strong economic and defence ties with Moscow, has publicly condemned the loss of innocent lives in the war but has deepened its economic relationship with Russia. Indian refiners have become major buyers of Russian oil since Western sanctions were imposed on Moscow following its invasion of Ukraine.

Ukraine aims to convene another international summit later this year to promote its vision of peace, which would include representatives from Russia. The first summit, held in Switzerland in June, excluded Russia but attracted numerous delegations, including one from India. Indian foreign ministry official Tanmaya Lal emphasised that lasting peace can only be achieved through a negotiated settlement acceptable to both sides.

While Modi's visit is not expected to yield a breakthrough in peace negotiations, it serves to highlight India’s intent to maintain balanced relations and signals that it is not aligned with Russia’s actions. US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma acknowledged the significance of Modi’s visit, noting the importance of promoting peace during this critical period for defending liberty, freedom and the rule of law.