Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ukraine this week is significant as India seeks to navigate alliances with both Russia and the West amidst heightened global tensions. Modi’s trip to Kyiv, at the invitation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, marks the first visit by an Indian head of state to Ukraine since diplomatic relations were established over 30 years ago.
India has faced criticism for its close ties with Russia, including maintaining trade relations and buying discounted Russian oil despite Western boycotts. However, Modi’s visit to Ukraine signals an effort to strengthen relations with Kyiv. Relations between India and Ukraine are still developing but not insignificant, with India having students studying in Ukraine, buying defense equipment from the country, and Ukraine being among India’s 50 largest trade partners.
Modi’s visit comes as he tries to balance ties with both Russia and Ukraine, with India aiming to leverage its influence to potentially mediate between the two countries. While India has refrained from openly labeling Russia as an aggressor in the war, it has an interest in maintaining stable relations with Russia for defense supplies and to prevent Russia from becoming a fully joint partner with China.
The visit also comes amidst ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with India emphasizing the importance of having Russia at the negotiating table for a potential peace initiative. Modi’s visit to Ukraine underscores India’s desire for an end to the conflict and for both sides to come to the negotiating table.
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