Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a discussion with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday, preceding a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This marked the second telephone conversation between the two leaders in August.
Discussing the conversation with Zelenskyy, Prime Minister Modi thanked the Ukrainian leader for the call and reaffirmed India’s support for the restoration of peace between Russia and Ukraine.
In a post on social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi wrote, “We exchanged views on the ongoing conflict, its humanitarian aspect, and efforts to restore peace and stability. India extends full support to all efforts in this direction.”
The conversation occurred a day before Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with Vladimir Putin at the SCO summit in China. Previously, Prime Minister Modi and Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a phone conversation on August 11.
President Zelenskyy shared his views on the recent developments related to the Ukraine conflict during the discussion. The Prime Minister’s Office stated, “The Prime Minister thanked President Zelenskyy and reaffirmed India’s firm and consistent stance on a peaceful resolution of the conflict and efforts to restore peace soon. The Prime Minister reiterated India’s commitment to provide all possible cooperation in this regard.”
Prime Minister Modi and President Zelenskyy also reviewed the progress in the India-Ukraine bilateral partnership. They discussed ways to “further enhance cooperation in all areas of mutual interest.” They agreed to remain in contact.
Zelenskyy also stated that he informed about the talks with President Trump in Washington. He mentioned it was a productive and important conversation. Ukraine is ready for a meeting with Russia’s leader.
Zelenskyy wrote that Ukraine is coordinating its position before the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit. He stated that the end of this war should be through an immediate ceasefire and the necessary peace, a position that everyone understands and supports. He also mentioned that it is impossible to have meaningful talks about peace when cities and communities are constantly under shelling. India is ready to make the necessary efforts and give appropriate signals to Russia and other leaders during meetings on the sidelines of the summit. He stated that they also discussed their bilateral relations, preparations for the exchange of visits, and the organization of a joint inter-governmental commission meeting. He said, “There are possibilities that we can realize. I will be happy to meet the Prime Minister in the near future.”
