Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a historic visit to Ukraine, where he told President Volodymyr Zelensky he is ready to help bring peace.
Last month, Zelensky criticized Modi for hugging Russian President Vladimir Putin during a trip to Moscow, especially on a day when Russian attacks killed over 40 people, including at a children’s hospital in Kyiv.
According to BBC, Modi expressed that problems can’t be solved through war and that both sides must talk to find a solution.
Modi traveled to Kyiv by train from Poland, making him the first world leader to visit Ukraine since Ukrainian forces crossed into Russia in August.
BBC reports that Modi’s visit included a somber moment at a Ukrainian history museum, where he paid respects to the 570 children killed since Russia’s invasion began.
This gesture was shared on Modi’s social media, showing him with his arm around Zelensky, sending condolences to the families of the victims.
Modi also offered to help start peace talks, emphasizing that dialogue and diplomacy are the only ways to end the conflict.
Although India has never condemned Russia’s invasion, BBC highlights that Modi claims India has always supported peace, referencing Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy.
Despite this, India continues to buy large amounts of Russian oil, indirectly supporting Russia’s economy during the war, BBC notes.
Modi and Zelensky also discussed Ukraine’s ongoing efforts in the conflict, and they later released a joint statement to strengthen their countries’ relations in defense and trade.
This visit marks a significant moment in their diplomatic ties, according to BBC.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx28xrzzrxqo