Since Ukraine was formed after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, no Indian Prime Minister had visited until now. Prime Minister Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Ukraine and proposed an active role in stopping the war. He urged Zelensky to abandon the war and engage in dialogue with Putin. This significant meeting took place at the official residence of the Ukrainian President, Mariinsky Palace, on Friday. Following their meeting, PM Modi expressed sorrow over the horrors of war, noting its devastating impact on children.
After meeting PM Modi, Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that he wishes for India to actively support the end of the war rather than maintaining a balancing act. Zelensky emphasized that if India stops buying oil from Russia, the war would end.
'Advocate for Peace without Delay'
When Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kyiv, all eyes were on what message he would convey to Zelensky and what suggestions he would offer for peace. What PM Modi did and said in Kyiv has now become global headlines. By placing a reassuring hand on Zelensky's shoulder, PM Modi seemed to promise to help end the war, capturing a notable image. His straightforward approach is characteristic of his leadership. Even after two-and-a-half years of the Russia-Ukraine war, PM Modi told Zelensky in no uncertain terms to talk about peace without delay, emphasizing that dialogue and diplomacy are the only ways to find a solution, and we must move forward without wasting time.
Source: aajtak
PM Modi Assures Zelensky of Support
Before suggesting Zelensky speak with Putin, Prime Minister Modi assured him of India's support in dealing with the crisis. PM Modi received a warm welcome upon arriving in Kyiv. The respect and honor displayed were evident as Zelensky greeted PM Modi warmly, extending his hand and embracing him. Zelensky shook hands and then hugged PM Modi, who reciprocated warmly. PM Modi then seemed to reassure Zelensky of efforts to end the war, reminding him that sitting at the peace table with Putin is necessary. Both sides need to sit together to find ways out of this crisis.
Source: aajtak
PM Modi's Recent Visit to Russia
Last month, PM Modi received a similarly warm welcome from Russian President Putin during his visit. In a friendly atmosphere, Modi had urged Putin to pursue peace, a call that only India could make with such courage. PM Modi particularly mentioned this to Zelensky, reminding him of his plea to Putin to choose peace.
PM Modi Shares Talk with Putin
PM Modi told Zelensky about his recent meeting with President Putin, where he firmly told him that it is not a time for war. Modi recounted his clear stance during the visit to Russia, reiterating that solutions do not lie on the battlefield.
India's Continuous Appeal for Peace
India has consistently appealed for peace, urging for an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. India's stance for immediate peace has drawn global attention to PM Modi's visit to Kyiv. Significantly, in his closing speech, PM Modi offered India’s active role in any peace efforts. He assured Zelensky that India is ready to take a leading role in peace efforts and even offered his personal involvement to contribute as a friend.
Source: aajtak
Invitation to India for Peace Talks
India’s role in halting the Russia-Ukraine war could be pivotal, largely due to India's neutral stance. Both Russia and Ukraine fully trust India, a confidence not even China or any American allies possess. Although PM Modi's Kyiv visit was brief, it could prove to be one of the most important visits in recent times. India’s offer of peace to Zelensky stands unparalleled by any other nation at present. PM Modi's invitation to Zelensky to visit India for a peace summit, which was accepted with high praise for India's role, could bring a significant breakthrough. However, Zelensky raised the issue of India buying oil from Russia, implying that war could cease if such purchases stopped and urging India to consider alternative options.