The potential visit comes shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s trip to New Delhi, reflecting India’s continued diplomatic balancing between Moscow and Kyiv. Officials in New Delhi have been in discussions with Ukrainian authorities for several weeks, even prior to Putin’s visit, to finalize the itinerary and format of Zelensky’s engagement.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the invitation to Zelensky during his visit to Kyiv in August 2024. During their three-hour meeting at Mariinsky Palace, Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to peace and highlighted the country’s influence in encouraging dialogue between the conflicting parties. Zelensky acknowledged India’s global role and expressed confidence that New Delhi could contribute meaningfully to the search for peace.
Political and battlefield developments in Ukraine, including domestic pressures on Zelensky’s administration, are expected to influence the timing and format of the visit. India’s approach mirrors its 2024 strategy, when Modi met Putin in Moscow and visited Kyiv weeks later, maintaining engagement with both sides without compromising its neutrality.
During his Kyiv visit, Modi paid tribute to children who lost their lives in the conflict, placing toys at the National Museum, symbolizing India’s humanitarian stance. In his recent discussions with Putin in New Delhi, Modi avoided terms like “war” or “conflict,” instead referring to the ongoing situation as a “crisis,” signaling a nuanced diplomatic posture.
If Zelensky’s visit proceeds, it will reinforce India’s strategic engagement with both Russia and Ukraine, while also providing a platform to discuss humanitarian assistance, trade, and peace initiatives in the region.
