Ukraine’s Ambassador to India, Oleksandr Polishchuk, has highlighted the growing importance of India in efforts to bring peace to Ukraine, pointing to New Delhi’s longstanding relationship with Moscow as a factor that could play a decisive role in negotiations. According to him, Kyiv considers India a vital partner in peace talks and is hopeful that the Indian government will step up its involvement in helping to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The Ambassador confirmed that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is likely to visit India soon, following an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He explained that both governments are currently coordinating to finalize the exact date of this high-level visit, which is expected to mark a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship. Describing the development as an important achievement, Polishchuk said that Ukraine views the meeting as a step toward deepening cooperation and strengthening trust between the two countries.
During his statement, Polishchuk emphasized that India’s consistent stand on promoting dialogue and peace coincides with Kyiv’s own vision for resolving the conflict with Russia. He recalled Prime Minister Modi’s remarks that India does not maintain a position of neutrality but instead stands firmly on the side of peace and dialogue. By engaging with all partners, including Russia, India has signaled its willingness to work toward a constructive resolution, which Ukraine regards as highly valuable.
The Ambassador also spoke about the progress in India-Ukraine relations since 2023. He revealed that the two nations are now exploring the potential of establishing a future strategic partnership, with both sides recognizing considerable room for cooperation. Over the past year, India has engaged intensively with Ukraine, with Prime Minister Modi and President Zelenskyy meeting several times during international gatherings, including sessions at the United Nations. This, according to Polishchuk, reflects a growing closeness and mutual understanding between the two governments.
He further addressed broader diplomatic dynamics by acknowledging the critical role of the United States and Western allies in supporting Kyiv. Referring to recent international meetings, he reiterated that Ukraine remains open to peace talks, but much depends on Moscow’s approach and the support of key global players. He also recalled that President Zelenskyy recently met with U.S. President Donald Trump after Trump’s discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, highlighting ongoing global efforts to find a way forward.
Looking ahead, Polishchuk said Kyiv hopes India will increase its involvement in diplomatic initiatives and peace-building efforts, given its longstanding connections with Russia and its growing influence on the world stage. He suggested that progress on this issue could also be expected during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session in September.
The Ambassador drew attention to President Zelenskyy’s Independence Day message to Prime Minister Modi and the Indian people, in which he congratulated them and expressed his hope that India would play a greater role in global peace efforts, particularly in relation to the Russia-Ukraine war. He noted that India’s outreach, especially Modi’s visit to Ukraine in August 2024, where he expressed willingness to help as a friend, underscores New Delhi’s commitment to peace and its potential to mediate in one of the most pressing international conflicts of today.
In conclusion, the Ukrainian envoy reiterated his call for a more active Indian role in resolving the crisis. For Kyiv, India is not just a neutral observer but a nation with deep diplomatic ties, the trust of both sides, and the credibility to facilitate meaningful negotiations that could eventually pave the way to lasting peace.
