Why is India's Modi visiting Ukraine? AP clarifies expectations

In a historic visit to Kyiv, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on August 22, marking a significant moment in India-Ukraine relations.

This visit, the first by an Indian prime minister since the two nations established diplomatic ties over three decades ago, follows Modi's recent high-profile trip to Moscow, where he held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Caliber.Az reports, citing AP.

The visit comes at a critical time, as the world closely watches India's diplomatic manoeuvres amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Officials in both India and Ukraine have stated that the talks will primarily focus on strengthening economic ties and cooperation in defence, science, and technology. However, geopolitical analysts suggest that the trip also represents an attempt by India to balance its global stance after what has been perceived as a tilt towards Russia.

India's longstanding relationship with Russia dates back to the Cold War era, and Modi's recent visit to Moscow on July 8-9, during which he was seen embracing Putin, sparked controversy. The visit coincided with a NATO summit in Washington and Russian missile strikes on a Ukrainian hospital, resulting in significant casualties. Zelenskyy publicly criticized Modi’s meeting with Putin, calling it "a huge disappointment" and "a devastating blow to peace efforts."

This week’s visit to Ukraine is seen by many as an effort to "balance the situation" and address the concerns of the international community. K C Singh, a former diplomat and strategic affairs expert, noted that the trip appears to be an attempt to counter the fallout from Modi's Moscow visit, which drew sharp criticism from Western leaders.

Indian officials, however, have downplayed any connections between the Kyiv and Moscow trips. Tanmaya Lal, India’s Secretary (West), emphasized that India’s relationships with Russia and Ukraine are "independent, broad ties" and should not be viewed through a zero-sum lens. New Delhi has consistently refrained from condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine or voting against Moscow in United Nations resolutions, urging both sides to resolve their differences through dialogue instead.

Modi’s visit to Ukraine also follows a two-day stop in Poland, signalling India’s intent to engage more deeply with Eastern Europe. As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to dominate global headlines, Modi's visit is expected to carry significant diplomatic weight, not only for India’s relations with Ukraine but also for its broader standing on the global stage.

The outcomes of the meeting between Modi and Zelenskyy could have far-reaching implications, potentially influencing India’s diplomatic relations with the West, Russia, and other key global players.