Modi Offers India’s Help With Ukraine Peace Efforts in Call With Zelenskyy

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered India’s help with efforts toward a peaceful resolution of the war in Ukraine during a telephone call with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on November 9. The leaders also discussed bilateral cooperation, while Zelenskyy described a possible Indian role in establishing food corridors. Modi reaffirmed India’s position that dialogue and diplomacy should resolve the conflict. In his account of the call, he said: “Reiterated India’s firm commitment to contributing in every possible way towards a peaceful resolution.” He thanked Zelenskyy for sharing his perspective on the conflict, its humanitarian aspects and efforts to restore peace. The two leaders reviewed cooperation across several sectors and agreed to strengthen relations between India and Ukraine. Zelenskyy said he briefed Modi on diplomatic developments and Ukraine’s preparations for issues on the agenda of a meeting in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. He said Ukraine was taking a constructive approach and Russia needed to demonstrate readiness to de-escalate. The Ukrainian president said they discussed Russia’s blocking of grain exports in the Black Sea and the effects on food security. According to Zelenskyy, India was ready to mediate in establishing food corridors, and Ukraine expected those efforts to continue. He said Indian steps and dialogue with other leaders could help address food security. Their teams agreed to remain in contact on these and other bilateral issues, he added.