Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Russia, describing it as deeply disappointing and detrimental to peace efforts. Zelenskyy's remarks were made on a particularly tragic day when a Russian missile struck a children's hospital in Kyiv, resulting in the deaths of 29 people.
Zelenskyy expressed dismay over seeing the leader of the world's largest democracy embrace what he referred to as "the world’s most bloody criminal" in Moscow. This comment directly referenced the warm reception between Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin during their meeting at Putin's residence in Novo-Ogaryovo. The encounter included friendly gestures such as hugs, tea together, and a tour of the estate grounds.
Meanwhile, PM Modi reportedly emphasized to Putin the necessity of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the Ukraine conflict, stressing that solutions cannot be achieved through military means. Before their talks, the United States had urged India to communicate to Russia the importance of upholding the United Nations charter and respecting Ukraine's sovereignty.
The day of Zelenskyy's criticism coincided with a devastating Russian missile attack on several Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, which resulted in at least 41 deaths and extensive damage. This assault, described as one of Russia's most intense bombardments of Kyiv in months, underscored the ongoing severity of the conflict and the urgent need for international attention and condemnation.
