US Calls on India to Advocate for Peace in Ukraine During Modi's Russia Visit

The United States has been actively urging India to play a pivotal role in fostering peace in Ukraine. This call for support comes amidst Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Russia, a trip that has sparked significant international interest and some controversy.

During a press briefing, Vedant Patel, the Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the US State Department, emphasized the importance of the India-US partnership, which spans various key areas. He noted that this partnership was highlighted during Prime Minister Modi's state visit to the US last summer. However, Patel also stressed the need for India to support efforts to achieve a lasting and just peace in Ukraine, a sentiment driven by the ongoing aggression and territorial infringements by Russia.

PM Modi's visit to Russia from July 8-9 involved a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This visit, Modi's first to Russia since the outbreak of the war between Moscow and Kyiv in 2022, has not been without its criticisms. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his disappointment, describing Modi's trip as a "devastating blow to peace efforts."

In his discussions with President Putin, Modi addressed the tragic impact of the conflict, particularly the deaths of innocent children. He described the loss of young lives as "heart-wrenching," referencing a recent missile strike on a children's hospital in Kyiv that resulted in the deaths of 37 children. Modi highlighted the universal pain felt by those who value humanity when such atrocities occur and emphasized that true resolution cannot be found on the battlefield. He insisted that peace talks are futile amidst the chaos of bombs and bullets.

India has consistently advocated for peace and diplomacy as the means to resolve the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Despite the contentious nature of his visit, Modi's messages during his bilateral talks with Putin underscore India's longstanding stance on the need for dialogue and negotiation over violence.

The US, recognizing the significant influence India holds, continues to press for its support in achieving an enduring peace in Ukraine. This diplomatic push is part of a broader strategy to gather international support against the ongoing Russian aggression and to restore Ukraine's territorial sovereignty. 

As the situation in Ukraine remains dire, the international community watches closely, hoping that influential nations like India will take a more active role in mediating peace and bringing an end to the conflict.