Narendra Modi urges Vladimir Putin to end Ukraine war

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has issued a direct call to Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine. Speaking on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Modi described the ongoing conflict as a step backward for humanity, stating, “Every day the war continues, humanity essentially takes one step back, while every step toward peace gives real hope to all of humanity.”

Modi emphasized India's support for a peaceful resolution, invoking the legacies of Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Teresa. During the meeting, Putin reportedly avoided eye contact and appeared uneasy, though he eventually responded by saying, “Thank you very much, Prime Minister. We are moving in that direction.”

This intervention is notable due to India's significant economic ties with Russia, including its role as a major purchaser of Russian oil. The diplomatic exchange occurs amid intensified Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and increased Ukrainian drone strikes against Russian energy and corporate facilities.