Narendra Modi Meets with Zelensky in Kyiv

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, has arrived in Kyiv, where he will meet with President Volodymyr Zelensky, reports NDTV. This marks his first visit to Ukraine.

Modi came to Kyiv directly after a two-day trip to Poland. “I am looking forward to the opportunity to continue discussions with President Zelensky regarding strengthening bilateral cooperation and exchanging views on the peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. I am confident that this visit will serve as a natural continuation of broad interactions between the two countries and help lay the groundwork for stronger and more dynamic relations in the coming years,” NDTV quoted the Indian Prime Minister.

Ukraine celebrates State Flag Day on August 23 and Independence Day on August 24.

According to Bloomberg, the Indian Prime Minister has agreed to convey messages between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, India does not wish to act as a mediator in the diplomatic resolution, a stance explained by New Delhi's dependency on cheap Russian energy resources and weapons. APF noted that Modi is maintaining a “delicate balance” between preserving warm ties with Moscow and establishing closer partnerships with Western countries in the field of security.

Earlier in July, Modi visited Russia and met with Putin. Commenting on the military operations during their meeting, he stated that “war is not a solution,” and that “bombs, missiles, and guns cannot ensure peace.” Putin thanked him in response, effectively concluding the public portion of their meeting. Zelensky condemned Modi's visit to Putin at that time, and following Zelensky's criticism, India's Ambassador to Ukraine, Alexander Polishchuk, was summoned by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.