PM Modi and President Putin, meeting in New Delhi, reaffirmed that lasting peace is the only solution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. With strong diplomatic messaging and Gandhi tributes setting the tone, can this dialogue open a new path to end the war?
PM Modi, Putin during their high-level meeting at Hyderabad House. (Credit: PM's YT handle)
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a crucial bilateral meeting in New Delhi on Friday, where both leaders reiterated that peaceful negotiation is the only viable pathway to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The high-level talks took place at Hyderabad House, marking another significant chapter in India-Russia diplomacy.
During the meeting, PM Modi emphasised that India has consistently advocated for peace since the conflict began in February 2022. Stressing that the welfare of the world lies in the “path of peace”, he said New Delhi firmly believes that disputes must be settled through dialogue and understanding, not battlefield escalation.
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PM Modi noted that since the outbreak of hostilities, India has maintained open communication with both parties as well as the global leadership.
“Trust builds strength,” he conveyed, adding that India is neither silent nor neutral, but clearly positioned on the side of peace. He expressed confidence that Russia and Ukraine, through diplomatic channels, will eventually find common ground.
The prime minister further underlined that India and Russia, with decades of strategic partnership between them, can play a constructive role in promoting stability and harmony at the global level.
Responding to India’s stance, President Putin said that Moscow remains engaged in efforts to reach a peaceful resolution. He welcomed the discussions with PM Modi, calling India a reliable and trusted partner. The reaffirmation from both sides highlighted the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement amidst one of the biggest geopolitical tensions of the decade.
Earlier, President Putin received a ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan, where President Droupadi Murmu and PM Modi welcomed him with full honours. This was followed by inspection of the Guard of Honour as part of the state protocol.
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The Russian president later visited Rajghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi. Signing the visitor’s book, Putin described Gandhi as a global symbol of peace and human dignity. He wrote that Gandhi’s message of freedom, compassion and moral strength remains relevant and continues to inspire the world.
The New Delhi meeting once again spotlighted India’s diplomatic approach firm in principle, balanced in policy, and rooted in peace.
As the Russia-Ukraine conflict stretches beyond two years, the joint assertion from Modi and Putin signals an important call to the global community: conversations must continue, and peace must remain the objective.
