India prime minister Modi set to visit Ukraine

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Ukraine, as announced by the foreign ministry on Monday, following Kyiv’s criticism of his recent embrace of President Vladimir Putin during a visit to Russia. The exact date for Modi’s trip to Poland and Ukraine has not been specified by New Delhi’s foreign ministry, but reports suggest it may occur later this week.

Modi has navigated a complex diplomatic landscape, balancing India’s historic ties with Moscow against a growing partnership with Western nations, particularly as a counterbalance to regional rival China. Despite the ongoing conflict, India has refrained from directly condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, advocating instead for dialogue between the warring parties.

Modi’s visit to Moscow in July coincided with a Russian attack on multiple Ukrainian cities, which resulted in significant casualties and damage, including to a children’s hospital in Kyiv. His public display of affection with Putin drew sharp criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

India’s relationship with Russia, established during the Cold War, has evolved with Russia becoming a major supplier of discounted crude oil to India amidst Western sanctions. This economic shift has allowed India to save billions while supporting Russia’s war efforts.

The conflict has also had repercussions for India, with at least five Indian citizens, who were employed in support roles with the Russian military, losing their lives on the frontlines. New Delhi has urged Moscow to return these individuals.

As Western nations enhance their ties with India to counter China’s influence in the Asia-Pacific region, they have also pressed New Delhi to distance itself from Russia. India, part of the Quad alliance with the US, Japan, and Australia, has largely avoided condemning Russia and has abstained from UN resolutions against the Kremlin, maintaining a cautious diplomatic stance.