India Reaffirms Call for Peace in Modi-Zelenskyy Phone Conversation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reaffirming India's consistent position for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict with Russia. During the call, which comes just days before a US-Russia summit on the issue, Modi conveyed India's support for all efforts aimed at restoring peace. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for India's support and stated that the two leaders agreed to a personal meeting in September during the UN General Assembly session.
Unpacked:
India has called for cessation of hostilities, dialogue, and respect for sovereignty while avoiding direct condemnation of Russia, repeatedly abstaining at the UN and emphasizing “not an era of war.” India’s energy trade with Russia expanded sharply—becoming a top importer of Russian oil—complicating ties with Ukraine and Western partners even as India provides humanitarian aid to Kyiv and keeps diplomatic channels with both sides open.
India publicly welcomed the August 15 US–Russia Alaska summit as a chance to advance peace, aligning its outreach to Kyiv with support for broader diplomatic efforts. The call let India reiterate neutrality and readiness to help, while hearing Ukraine’s concerns and coordinating a planned meeting during the UNGA to sustain engagement amid potential shifts from US–Russia talks.
Zelenskyy briefed Modi on recent Russian strikes, urged that decisions about Ukraine include Kyiv, discussed sanctions on Russia, and specifically called for limiting Russian energy exports to curb Moscow’s war financing, noting India’s leverage with Russia. He thanked India for support and agreed to plan a bilateral meeting during the UN General Assembly.
India’s discounted Russian oil imports surged, making it a leading buyer and boosting bilateral trade with Moscow. This has drawn Western scrutiny and, per Indian media, coincided with rising U.S. tariff threats toward India. New Delhi balances energy security and strategic autonomy with a peace-first diplomatic posture, signaling support for negotiations while resisting pressure to cut Russian energy quickly.