Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Ukraine on August 23, marking his first visit to the country since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in February 2022. This trip is particularly notable as it comes just a month after his recent visit to Moscow, where he held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Despite growing international interest in India’s role, the Indian government has made it clear that it will not mediate between Ukraine and Russia during this visit. Instead, India plans to serve as a diplomatic messenger, conveying messages between the two sides in hopes of fostering dialogue and peace. Officials emphasized that it is not India’s place to predict or influence the outcomes of the discussions between Ukrainian and Indian leaders.
This visit is historic, as it will be the first time an Indian prime minister has visited Ukraine since the country gained independence in 1991. India has maintained a neutral stance throughout the conflict, refraining from condemning Russia while advocating for a resolution through diplomacy. This approach allows India to balance its relationships with both Russia and Western nations, despite the pressure from some Western powers to take a stronger stance against Moscow.
During the conflict, India has continued to engage in significant trade with Russia, particularly in the areas of oil and military supplies, which has drawn criticism from some quarters. However, India has also provided humanitarian aid to Ukraine, including medicines, medical equipment, and school buses, as part of its de-hyphenated foreign policy.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Ukraine is expected to build on recent high-level interactions between Indian and Ukrainian leaders. Although India has ruled out taking on a mediatory role, its diplomatic efforts are seen as crucial in promoting peace and encouraging other nations to join in seeking a resolution to the conflict.
India’s approach reflects its broader strategy of maintaining strong ties with both Russia and Western nations, while continuing to advocate for dialogue and peaceful solutions in the face of complex international tensions.
