
Kyiv [Ukraine], August 11 (ANI): Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday held an extensive discussion with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on bilateral cooperation and the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude for PM Modi’s warm words of support for the Ukrainian people, highlighting the importance of global solidarity during these challenging times.
In a post on X, Zelenskyy wrote, “I had a long conversation with the Prime Minister of India @narendramodi. We discussed in detail all important issues – both of our bilateral cooperation and the overall diplomatic situation. I am grateful to the Prime Minister for his warm words of support for our people.”
He added, “We agreed to plan a personal meeting in September during the UN General Assembly and to work on an exchange of visits.”
The talks come amid heightened tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with the United States and other nations exploring avenues to end the war. India has maintained a balanced stance, advocating for peaceful resolution while strengthening ties with both Russia and Ukraine.
Zelenskyy briefed PM Modi on recent Russian strikes, including an attack on a bus station in Zaporizhzhia that injured dozens. He stressed that these attacks occur even as diplomatic opportunities to end the war emerge, accusing Russia of showing no readiness for a ceasefire.
“I informed about the Russian attacks on our cities and villages, about yesterday’s strike on the bus station in Zaporizhzhia… at a time when there is finally a diplomatic possibility to end the war. Instead of demonstrating readiness for a ceasefire, Russia is showing only its desire to continue the occupation and killings,” Zelenskyy posted on X.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s consistent position advocating for the peaceful settlement of the conflict and support for efforts aimed at the earliest restoration of peace.
The leaders also reviewed progress in the India-Ukraine partnership and discussed expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
In his own post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Glad to speak with President Zelenskyy and hear his perspectives on recent developments. I conveyed India’s consistent position on the need for an early and peaceful resolution of the conflict. India remains committed to making every possible contribution in this regard, as well as to further strengthening bilateral ties with Ukraine.”
Zelenskyy also underscored the need to “limit the export of Russian energy, particularly oil” to curb Moscow’s ability to finance the war, urging world leaders with leverage over Russia to send strong signals.
The conversation came shortly after PM Modi’s August 8 call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which Putin briefed him on the latest developments concerning Ukraine.
This diplomatic engagement also precedes the scheduled August 15 summit in Alaska between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, where efforts to broker a peace deal are expected to dominate the agenda. The White House is also considering inviting Zelenskyy to the meeting, though his participation has yet to be confirmed.