Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kyiv on Friday. He visited Ukraine at the invitation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The visit aims to promote a peaceful resolution to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
This visit is historic. It marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has traveled to Ukraine since diplomatic relations began in 1992. PM Modi arrived in Kyiv after a 10-hour train journey from Poland on Rail Force One. He received warm welcome at the station and then went to the Hyatt Hotel for initial meetings. Members of the Indian diaspora greeted him with enthusiasm.
The primary goal of PM Modi’s visit is to discuss how to achieve peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. India is seen as a potential mediator between the two countries. Before departing from Delhi, PM Modi said, “I look forward to the opportunity to build upon earlier conversations with President Zelenskyy on strengthening bilateral cooperation and share perspectives on the peaceful resolution of the ongoing Ukraine conflict.”
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This visit follows PM Modi’s trip to Moscow and meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which had triggered objections from the West. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted that PM Modi’s meetings in Kyiv will cover a wide range of topics, including political, trade, economic, and cultural exchanges, as well as humanitarian assistance.
The Ukrainian President’s office highlighted the importance of this visit. Talks between PM Modi and President Zelensky will address both bilateral and multilateral cooperation. Several documents between Ukraine and India are expected to be signed.
PM Modi had previously met President Zelensky on June 14 during the G7 Summit in Italy, discussing the conflict and bilateral relations. India remains committed to supporting a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy. New Delhi has also provided significant humanitarian aid to Ukraine, including essential medicines and medical equipment.
Before arriving in Ukraine, PM Modi made a historic visit to Poland. During that visit, he met with Polish President Andrzej Sebastian Duda and Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Both expressed confidence that PM Modi would advocate for a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.