Indian Prime Minister’s Landmark Trip to Ukraine: India Takes Stand for Peace, Non-Neutrality
Modi’s visit to Ukraine last week followed his visit to Moscow just six weeks prior. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi traveled to Ukraine to meet with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Aug. 23. Accompanied by India’s foreign minister S. Jaishankar and national security adviser Ajit Doval, Modi’s visit underscored the seriousness of the meeting.
During this historic trip, the first by an Indian Prime Minister since Ukraine gained independence in 1991, Modi and Zelenskyy engaged in one-on-one delegation level talks to explore a peaceful solution to the Russia–Ukraine conflict.
Modi and Zelenskyy also visited the Martyrologist Exposition in Kyiv, where they honored the Ukrainian children killed in the conflict by placing symbolic toys at the memorial. Modi expressed his sentiments through silent prayer.
Modi emphasized India’s stance on peace during his televised address with Zelenskyy, stating, “We have chosen to stay out of the war, but that doesn’t mean we are neutral. From the very beginning, we have been on the side of peace. We come from the land of Buddha, which has no place for war.”
Modi conveyed a message of peace from the 1.4 billion people of India and other countries in the global south. Experts view Modi’s visit as a diplomatic balancing act, focusing on dialogue and diplomacy over war.
Modi’s trip to Ukraine, following his recent visit to Moscow, signifies a unique model for conflict resolution and may benefit countries impacted by the Ukraine–Russia conflict such as India and Poland.
India’s Unique Position
Modi’s engagement with both Russia and Ukraine demonstrates a new template of conflict resolution. His emphasis on respecting and empathizing with all parties involved before advocating for dialogue sets a significant example for ending conflicts that do not align with India’s best interests.
Ending the Ukraine conflict is essential for India’s defense manufacturing relationships with Russia and historically with Ukraine. Payne highlights that resolving issues stemming from the conflict is crucial for India’s military interests.
The visit by Modi strengthens the bond between India and Ukraine and showcases India’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution. Payne also notes the potential benefits of India’s involvement in resolving the conflict for countries economically impacted by disruptions in global supply chains.
