What Did PM Modi and Zelensky Discuss About the Russia-Ukraine Conflict?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi and Zelensky discussed the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
- India reaffirms commitment to peace efforts.
- Future cooperation plans were outlined.
- Importance of dialogue and understanding emphasized.
- Meeting scheduled during UNGA in September.
New Delhi/Kyiv, Aug 11 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday, reaffirming India’s unwavering commitment to a peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict in the region and endorsing efforts aimed at the prompt restoration of peace.
During the discussion, Zelensky shared insights regarding recent developments in Ukraine. The two leaders evaluated progress in the India-Ukraine bilateral partnership and explored avenues for further enhancing cooperation in areas of shared interest.
"The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to President Zelensky and reiterated India’s strong and consistent stance on the need for a peaceful settlement, along with support for efforts aimed at achieving a swift return to peace. PM Modi emphasized India’s dedication to providing all possible assistance in this regard," the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) reported following the conversation.
This crucial dialogue occurred prior to the much-anticipated meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin scheduled for this week in Alaska.
"I was pleased to converse with President Zelensky and gain insights on recent events. I stressed India’s consistent call for an early and peaceful resolution to the conflict. India is committed to making every possible contribution towards this goal, as well as to further strengthening bilateral relations with Ukraine," PM Modi posted on X.
As both leaders agreed to maintain communication, Zelensky shared reflections on his conversation with PM Modi, conveying appreciation for the Prime Minister’s "supportive words" for the Ukrainian people.
"I had an extensive discussion with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India. We thoroughly analyzed significant issues surrounding both our bilateral cooperation and the broader diplomatic landscape. I am thankful to the Prime Minister for his encouraging words towards our people. I informed him of the Russian assaults on our cities and villages, including the recent strike on the bus station in Zaporizhzhia, where numerous individuals were injured in a deliberate Russian bombing of a civilian facility. This comes at a time when there is finally a diplomatic opportunity to conclude the war. Instead of showing readiness for a ceasefire, Russia is only demonstrating its intention to persist with the occupation and violence," Zelensky posted on X.
The Ukrainian President mentioned that he and PM Modi agreed to arrange a personal meeting in September coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and to work towards an exchange of visits.
"It is crucial that India supports our peace initiatives and acknowledges that all matters concerning Ukraine must be resolved with its participation. Alternative formats will not yield results. We also discussed sanctions against Russia in detail. I highlighted the necessity of restricting Russian energy exports, particularly oil, to diminish its capacity to finance the ongoing war. It is vital that every leader with substantial influence over Russia communicates the appropriate signals to Moscow. We consented to plan a personal meeting in September during the UN General Assembly and to work on facilitating an exchange of visits," he stated.
On Saturday, India welcomed the upcoming summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, set to occur in Alaska on August 15.
In a statement, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "India welcomes the understanding reached between the United States and the Russian Federation for a meeting in Alaska on 15th August 2025. This summit holds the potential to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and pave the way for peace. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized repeatedly, 'This is not an era of war'.
"India, therefore, supports the upcoming summit and stands ready to assist in these efforts," he added.