India Could Be Crucial in Resolving Ukraine-Russia Conflict, Says Zelenskyy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his eagerness to visit India, highlighting its potential role in global diplomatic efforts to end the conflict with Russia. "India is a big influential country, not only in the world but also through the circle of very skeptical countries. If we will change India’s attitude to this war and to Russia, we will stop the war, because Putin will want to stop it," Zelenskyy stated during an interaction with visiting Indian media.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first visit to Kyiv was described by Zelenskyy as historic. During their bilateral talks, Modi invited Zelenskyy to visit India. "Modi’s visit was historic," Zelenskyy said, adding, "I very much need your country on our side, not balancing between the US and Russia."

India's Role in Diplomatic Efforts

Zelenskyy emphasised India's importance in diplomatic influence. He mentioned that understanding a country involves understanding its people. "It’s better to be in your country because to find the key to your country and to your Prime Minister is to see your people and I need very much to find the key to your country," he said.

During Modi's nearly nine-hour visit to Ukraine, he urged both Ukraine and Russia to engage in dialogue without delay. Modi conveyed that India has been advocating for peace since the conflict began in February 2022. Zelenskyy echoed this sentiment, stating, "When you begin a strategic partnership, and you begin some dialogue, you don’t need to lose time."

Peace Summits and Future Relations

Zelenskyy expressed his desire for Modi to host peace summits. He stated, "We want him Modi very much to have peace summits, and of course we will be happy to work on it." However, he made it clear that Ukraine would not compromise on its territories or values. "But we don’t change our territories on any propositions ... we don’t change our people to any propositions," he affirmed.

Addressing India's past stance at the UN against Russia, Zelenskyy preferred focusing on future relations. He said, "Before new resolutions, we have to speak, we have to make more strong relations between our country and India before new decisions." He assured that there would be no significant challenges in future relations between Ukraine and India.

Economic Dependencies and Defence Production

Zelenskyy pointed out the significant contracts between India and Russia concerning oil. He noted that Putin relies heavily on oil for his economy. "Putin is afraid of losing the economy; he has nothing except for oil," Zelenskyy remarked. He suggested that countries importing energy resources from Russia could help globally.

Regarding defence production discussions with India, Zelenskyy mentioned they talked about some technologies but were open for larger deals if India was ready. He said, "We spoke basically about some technologies but we are open for a very big deal if India will be ready."

Indian Citizens and Media Reports

Zelenskyy addressed concerns about Indian citizens in Ukrainian prisons by denying their presence but assured immediate action if any were found. He also acknowledged media reports about Indian nationals' deaths while working for the Russian Army in its war with Ukraine.

Zelenskyy's remarks underscore his hope for stronger ties with India and its pivotal role in achieving peace between Ukraine and Russia.