Prime Minister Modi’s Visit to Ukraine is as much about peace as it is to establish India as a neutral country
On August 20, 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a historic visit to Ukraine, marking a significant moment in the diplomatic relations between the two nations. This visit came amid ongoing conflict in the region. India and Ukraine have historically maintained cordial relations, with ties largely focused on economic cooperation, technical assistance, and cultural exchange. However, the backdrop of Modi’s visit is the prolonged conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which has led to a significant humanitarian and geopolitical crisis. India has traditionally adhered to a neutral stance, emphasising dialogue and diplomacy. Modi’s visit underscores a nuanced shift in India’s approach, highlighting a deeper engagement with Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict. Only a month before PM Modi had visited Russia much to the chargin of Kyiv. But his Ukraine visit in a way establishes India’s neutral stance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered to help bring peace to Ukraine in a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He also asked the Ukrainian President to sit down and talk to end the conflct. This is first ever visit of an Indian prime minister to Ukraine after two two countries established diplomatic relations in 1992.