In a significant development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Ukraine, according to the Indian foreign ministry. This will be his first trip to the war-torn country since the conflict with Russia began in 2022. The details of the visit are expected to be released later today.
Indian media outlets have reported that Modi is likely to travel to Kyiv this month. This visit comes at a crucial juncture, as Western nations have imposed stringent sanctions on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. However, India, along with China, has maintained its trade relations with Moscow.
India has consistently refrained from directly condemning Russia’s actions in Ukraine, which Moscow refers to as a ‘special military operation.’ Instead, India has urged both countries to resolve the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.
This visit has sparked concerns from the United States, which has been seeking to strengthen ties with India as a counterbalance to China’s growing influence. The US has expressed concerns over India’s relationship with Russia, particularly in light of its efforts to bolster ties with New Delhi.
India finds itself navigating a delicate diplomatic balancing act. It aims to deepen its relationship with the West while simultaneously maintaining its historic ties with Russia. Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to Ukraine will undoubtedly be closely watched by the international community as a key indicator of India’s stance on the ongoing conflict.
