New Delhi: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s significant potential to influence the resolution of the ongoing Ukraine conflict. In an interview with The Times of India, Zelenskyy said, “PM Modi has the potential to influence the end of the Ukraine war. This is a tremendous asset in any conflict and a true strength of India.”
When asked about the possibility of PM Modi hosting negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, Zelenskyy hinted at his support for such a role, saying, “Undoubtedly, this could happen in India, with PM Modi playing a central part… (but) only following our conditions, as this war is taking place on our land… we already have a platform, which is the peace summit.”
Ukrainian forces under increased pressure
In recent months, Ukrainian forces have come under increased pressure as Russian advances continue in the Donbas region. Further complicating the situation is the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming US presidential election. A victory for Donald Trump could potentially impact American support for Kyiv, which relies heavily on Washington for military aid. Restrictions are already in place on how Ukraine can deploy American-supplied long-range weapons, specifically limiting their use against Russian targets deep within Russian territory.
“This winter will mark the third difficult season for Ukraine and its people,” Zelenskyy said, adding, “We are steadily strengthening our energy systems and will not allow Russia to undermine the safety of our citizens.”
Zelenskyy called on India to take an active role
Commenting on Modi’s previous statement about India’s willingness to work towards peace in Ukraine, Zelenskyy called on India to take an active role. Specifically, he requested PM Modi’s assistance in securing the return of Ukrainian children who have been forcibly taken to Russia. “PM Modi can use his influence to urge Putin to return 1,000 Ukrainian children back to Ukraine. Let PM Modi bring back at least 1,000 of our children,” he appealed.
Reflecting on the recent BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Zelenskyy expressed disappointment, calling it a failure due to the lack of cohesion among member states and criticising President Putin’s attempts to manipulate global perspectives.
Zelenskyy also contended that neutrality in the Ukraine-Russia conflict effectively serves as support for Russia, arguing that it is impossible to remain impartial between an aggressor and a victim. Although India has not openly condemned Russia’s actions, it has consistently called for peace, stating that “This is not an era of war” and positioning itself “on the side of peace”.
