Blinken Emphasizes 'Just and Enduring Peace' for Ukraine in Talks with Indian FM Jaishankar

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted the need for a lasting peace in Ukraine during a discussion with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. The meeting comes as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reportedly plans a visit to Ukraine, shortly after meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday emphasized the importance of a 'just and enduring peace' for Ukraine in a meeting with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, according to the State Department. The discussion came amid reports of an upcoming visit to Ukraine by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Modi is expected to visit Ukraine in August, according to various Indian media outlets. This would be Modi's first visit to Ukraine since the Russian invasion in February 2022, and follows closely after his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has previously expressed disappointment with Modi's visit to Russia.

Western nations imposed sanctions on Moscow following the invasion, while countries friendly with Russia, including India and China, have continued trading. Blinken emphasized the importance of realizing peace for Ukraine consistent with the UN Charter in his Sunday statement with Jaishankar. Social media posts from both officials mentioned their meeting but did not specifically highlight Ukraine.

India has avoided directly criticizing Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, advocating for resolution through dialogue and diplomacy. Despite western pressure, New Delhi has maintained its longstanding ties with Russia due to economic needs. Concurrently, Washington has intensified efforts to strengthen relations with New Delhi, viewing India as a potential counterbalance to China.

(With inputs from agencies.)