India's Stance on Ukraine Conflict: PM Modi Holds Strategic Call with President Zelenskyy

Strategic Insights -

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on August 30, ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in China. The call marked their second such discussion this month, focusing on the war in Ukraine and prospects for peace. Modi reiterated India's consistent position favoring dialogue and a peaceful settlement, while Zelenskyy briefed the Prime Minister on recent developments in Ukraine and sought India's support in coordinating with Russia and other leaders.

Key Takeaways:

  • The conversation between PM Modi and President Zelenskyy marked their second call this month, with a focus on the war in Ukraine and prospects for peace.
  • PM Modi reiterated India's stance on the conflict, favoring dialogue and a peaceful settlement.
  • Zelenskyy briefed Modi on recent developments in Ukraine and requested India's support in coordinating with Russia and other leaders.
  • The two leaders also reviewed the India-Ukraine bilateral partnership, including plans for high-level visits and the Joint Intergovernmental Commission.
  • This was Modi's second call with Zelenskyy in August, following a similar exchange on August 11, and their third meeting in 2023.
  • The two leaders discussed the possibility of direct talks between Ukraine and Russia, with Zelenskyy stressing the need for an immediate ceasefire to end the conflict.

Statistics:

  • The conversation between PM Modi and President Zelenskyy took place on August 30, a day before Modi's scheduled trilateral engagement with Putin and Xi in Tianjin.
  • This was the second call between Modi and Zelenskyy this month, following a similar exchange on August 11.
  • The two leaders had last met in person during the G7 Summit in Hiroshima in May 2023.
  • India's support for a peaceful settlement of the conflict in Ukraine has been consistent, with PM Modi reiterating India's stance on peace during the call.

Sources:

  • "PM Modi Speaks to Zelenskyy Ahead of SCO Meet: "Ready to Make Necessary Efforts"" by INP News, August 30, 2025
  • "India Stands with Ukraine: PM Modi Reiterates Support for Peaceful Settlement" by Contify.com, August 30, 2025