Prime Minister Modi Stresses Peace and Diplomacy in Russia-Ukraine Conflict During Moscow Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict during a Moscow visit. He condemned violence, especially against civilians and children. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar discussed bilateral issues with Ukraine. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy criticized Modi's visit due to coinciding missile attacks in Kyiv.

During an official visit to Moscow, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for peaceful solutions to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. He underscored the devastating impact of violence on civilians and children, said Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal at a weekly press briefing on Friday.

Modi attended the 22nd annual summit between India and Russia, where he clearly conveyed that battlefield solutions are not viable. He stressed the tragic consequences of violence on innocent lives during his media address, Jaiswal added.

At the same briefing, it was revealed that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba about mutual interests earlier today. The discussion aimed at further developing bilateral relations, as Jaishankar posted on social media platform X.

However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed dismay over Modi's Moscow visit. He highlighted a recent attack in Kyiv where 37 people, including three children, died from a Russian missile strike targeting a children's hospital. The timing of Modi's visit, according to Zelenskyy, undermined peace efforts.

PM Modi's trip marks his first visit to Russia since the conflict began in 2022. India has consistently advocated for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the crisis and restore peace, reasserting this stance during his meetings with President Vladimir Putin.

(With inputs from agencies.)