Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday reported that he had a call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Ukrainian president’s phone call with PM Modi comes amid India being hit with high tariffs from the United States for buying Russian oil.
Ukraine Urges India to Join Peace Effort
According to the statement released by Zelensky, the Ukrainian president urged India to join the peace effort to bring an end to the war.
“It is important that India is supporting our peace efforts and shares the position that everything concerning Ukraine must be decided with Ukraine’s participation. Other formats will not deliver results,” said Zelensky.
PM Modi Reaffirms India’s Stand on Peaceful Resolution
Reacting to this, PM Modi revealed that he explained India’s position in the war to the Ukrainian president.
“I conveyed India’s consistent position on the need for an early and peaceful resolution of the conflict. India remains committed to making every possible contribution in this regard, as well as to further strengthening bilateral ties with Ukraine,’ said Modi on X.
Zelensky Calls for Sanctions on Russia
The Ukrainian president also urged sanctions against Russia as Ukraine marks the beginning of its fourth year of war.
“I noted that it is necessary to limit the export of Russian energy, particularly oil, to reduce its potential and ability to finance the continuation of this war,” said Zelensky. This statement comes as India faces 50 percent tariffs from the United States over its purchase of Russian oil.
US President Donald Trump added a 25 percent tariff on India because of India’s Russian oil buying and “fuelling the war machine”.
Modi Stands Firm on Protecting Farmers’ Interests
Responding to Trump’s tariffs, PM Modi said that India would not be willing to give up its farmers’ interests, even at the expense of economic costs.
“For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority. India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen and dairy farmers. I know we will have to pay a heavy price for it, and I am ready for it. India is ready for it,” said Modi.
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