Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a fervent appeal to India, urging the country to take a more active and definitive role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Zelenskyy’s remarks followed a high-stakes meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had just arrived in Kyiv—a visit that marked a historic moment as PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to step foot in Ukraine since its independence. The visit took place amid the devastating backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war, which has been raging for over a year, with severe implications not only for the two nations involved but also for global peace and security.
In his address to the media, Zelenskyy expressed a deep desire to see India shift away from its traditionally neutral stance, urging the Indian government to actively support Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression. He emphasized the pivotal role India could play in bringing about an end to the war, highlighting the country’s significant influence on the global stage. According to Zelenskyy, India, as a major global power, has the capacity to exert pressure on Russia by halting the purchase of Russian oil, thereby weakening Moscow's economic foundation and forcing President Vladimir Putin to reconsider his aggressive policies.
Zelenskyy also took the opportunity to express his heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for making the trip to Kyiv, calling it a "historic" gesture that symbolizes a new chapter in the relationship between India and Ukraine. The Ukrainian leader noted that this visit was not just a meeting of leaders but a momentous occasion that could have far-reaching implications for both nations and their people. Zelenskyy further shared his intentions to visit India in the near future, stating that he wished to reach out to the Indian people and strengthen bilateral ties.
The talks between Zelenskyy and PM Modi were described as extensive and covered a wide range of issues, with a primary focus on finding a peaceful and negotiated settlement to the conflict that has caused widespread devastation and suffering. During these discussions, four significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between the two countries. Zelenskyy hailed these agreements as the beginning of a deeper and more collaborative partnership, which he hopes will lead to increased cooperation in various sectors, including technology. He offered to share Ukrainian technological advancements with India, signaling a willingness to build strong, mutually beneficial ties in the future.
In an exclusive interview with India Today TV, Zelenskyy reiterated his call for India to take a stand against Russia, arguing that the conflict is not merely a regional dispute but a full-scale war initiated by Russian President Vladimir Putin against the sovereign nation of Ukraine. Zelenskyy stressed that India's involvement could be decisive in tipping the balance against Russia, particularly if India were to use its economic leverage to curtail Russian aggression. He pointed out that India’s actions could significantly impact Russia’s economy, thereby forcing Putin to rethink his military strategy and potentially bringing an end to the conflict.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi made it clear that India is committed to playing a constructive role in the quest for peace. He urged both Ukraine and Russia to engage in dialogue and negotiations without delay, emphasizing that a peaceful resolution is the only viable path forward. Modi's message was one of diplomacy and reconciliation, reflecting India’s long-standing commitment to peaceful conflict resolution. He stated that India, a country deeply rooted in the teachings of peace and non-violence as exemplified by Buddha, stands firmly against war. "We are not neutral. From the very beginning, we have taken sides. And we have chosen the side of peace," Modi declared, underscoring India’s position in the ongoing conflict.
PM Modi's visit to Ukraine and his discussions with President Zelenskyy underscored the growing importance of India in global diplomatic efforts. As the world watches the unfolding events in Ukraine, India’s role as a potential mediator and peace advocate is becoming increasingly significant. The meeting between Modi and Zelenskyy not only highlighted the urgency of finding a peaceful solution to the war but also opened the door for enhanced cooperation between India and Ukraine, paving the way for a new era in their bilateral relationship.
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