What was discussed during Modi's meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to facilitating dialogue and diplomacy in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said during a media briefing. He stated that PM Modi emphasized "India's willingness to contribute in all ways possible." The prime minister is currently on a historic visit to Ukraine, marking the first time an Indian head of government has visited the country since it gained independence in 1991.
PM Modi meets with Ukrainian President Zelensky
PM Modi, who also has good relations with Russia met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Mariinsky Palace in Kyiv. Jaishankar revealed that the PM Modi discussed his previous conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin during this meeting. He further dismissed claims that India was neutral in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, saying, "We are willing to do whatever we can."
This conflict must end: Jaishankar
"President Zelenskyy knows we mean well by Ukraine, we want these conflict to come to an end. If there is anything we can do in any way in sort of upfront, behind or supporting anybody, we are willing to do whatever we can. This conflict must end, we believe," Jaishankar said. He also stated that much of the discussion between PM Modi and President Zelenskyy focused on the war in Ukraine.
PM Modi underscores need for dialogue in joint statement
Regarding imposing sanctions, Jaishankar said, "We [India] do not impose sanctions on any country, that is not part of our diplomacy. Moreover, we expect both sides to work out a solution. We're sure even Ukraine wants an end to the conflict. But it has to be a two-way conversation." Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the United States, United Kingdom and European Union, along with countries including Australia, Canada and Japan, have imposed over 16,500 sanctions on Russia.
PM Modi's consistent stance on Russia-Ukraine conflict
Yet, India has consistently advocated for peaceful resolution in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. For demergency medical response, India has also handed over Bhishm Cube of Medical assistance to Ukraine, Jaishankar said. The BHISHM Cube is a cutting-edge mobile hospital unit developed under Project BHISHM— Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita, and Maitri. It can treat up to 200 casualties. The unit weighs 720kg and is made up of 72 easily transportable components, which can be carried by hand, cycle, or drone.
