Indian PM Modi Visits Kyiv: Balancing Act Between Russia and Ukraine

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Kyiv on August 23, just over a month after his trip to Moscow. The visit comes amid mixed feelings from Ukraine, as India has maintained close ties to Russia despite the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Modi’s call for peace in the region has been coupled with a reluctance to hold the Kremlin directly responsible for the war. His upcoming visit to Ukraine marks the first visit by an Indian leader in about three decades.

India’s Complex Diplomacy

India’s visit to Ukraine is seen as a balancing act, aiming to urge peace negotiations while maintaining relationships with both Russia and Ukraine. The strategic ties between India and Russia, including in military and trade, pose a challenge for India’s diplomacy.

Furthermore, amid tensions with the West over Modi’s Russia-friendly stance, India seeks to avoid alienating Western powers. The visit to Kyiv presents an opportunity for India to project itself as a peacemaker and offer humanitarian assistance.

Agenda for Modi’s Visit

Aside from discussions on the war in Ukraine, Modi is expected to engage with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on defense and economic cooperation. The role of India in the post-war rebuild of Ukraine and the evacuation of Indian students following the conflict will also be on the agenda.

Modi’s visit to Kyiv reflects India’s intricate position in balancing relationships with major global powers while advocating for peace in conflict zones.

Edited by: Darko Janjevic