Global Media Hails PM Modi’s Historic Visit to Ukraine, First Indian PM to Visit Since 1991

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 24th August. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ukraine and his meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky have been widely covered by global media as a significant diplomatic move. Modi’s visit marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has traveled to Ukraine since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, making it a historic event in the context of India’s foreign relations.

The New York Times praised Modi’s diplomatic balancing act, noting his careful management of relations with both Ukraine and Russia. The report highlighted Modi’s recent visit to Moscow, where he embraced President Putin, while also pointing out India’s role as a key trading partner with Russia. It mentioned India’s participation in a Ukrainian-organized peace summit in June but noted that India did not fully back Ukraine’s negotiating positions by signing the final communique.

BBC focused on India’s stance throughout the conflict, emphasizing that while Modi has consistently advocated for peace, India has not condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The report highlighted that despite Modi’s insistence on India’s neutrality, the country’s continued import of Russian oil, especially in the face of Western sanctions, effectively supports Moscow’s war economy.

The Guardian highlighted the historical significance of Modi’s visit, being the first by an Indian leader to Ukraine. However, the report also noted the strained relations between the two nations, particularly with Zelensky criticizing Modi’s recent trip to Moscow, which coincided with a Russian missile attack on a children’s hospital in Kyiv.

Nikkei Asia provided insights into India’s diplomatic strategy, pointing out that despite Western pressure, India has not explicitly condemned Russia, its traditional ally and major weapons supplier. Instead, India has maintained its stance of resolving the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy while continuing to engage in significant trade with Russia, particularly in purchasing discounted Russian oil.

Le Monde described Zelensky’s characterization of Modi’s visit as a ‘historic moment’ but noted that the visit did not lead to any significant breakthroughs in the peace process. Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar later remarked on the complexity of the situation, emphasizing that India believes any peace efforts must involve Moscow to be effective.

PM Modi’s visit to Ukraine is seen as a delicate balancing act, reflecting India’s nuanced approach to the ongoing conflict, as it seeks to maintain its long-standing relationship with Russia while advocating for peace and dialogue on the global stage.