Zelensky dials PM Modi, proposes meeting on sidelines of UNGA; India stresses peaceful resolution

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky - File photo

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said he had a “warm conversation” with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during which he discussed recent developments in the ongoing conflict. Zelensky also proposed for a meeting with PM Modi on sidelines of the UNGA Session in September this year.

PM Modi reiterated India’s consistent call for an early and peaceful resolution, stressing that New Delhi remains committed to contributing in every possible way toward that goal. He also underlined India’s intent to further strengthen bilateral relations with Ukraine.

Glad to speak with President Zelenskyy and hear his perspectives on recent developments. 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…

Story continues below Advertisement

Remove Ad

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 11, 2025

Meanwhile, Zelensky described the call as a “long conversation” covering both bilateral cooperation and the broader diplomatic situation. He expressed gratitude for PM Modi’s “warm words of support” for the Ukrainian people.

In a long X post, Zelensky said he informed PM Modi about the recent Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and villages, including a deadly strike on a bus station in Zaporizhzhia that injured dozens, condemning the bombing as a deliberate attack on a civilian facility. He underscored that, despite diplomatic openings to end the war, Russia continues its aggression, showing no readiness for a ceasefire.

Zelensky praised India’s support for peace efforts and emphasized that all decisions regarding Ukraine’s future must involve Ukraine itself, warning that alternative diplomatic formats will not yield results.

I had a long conversation with the Prime Minister of India @narendramodi. We discussed in detail all important issues – both of our bilateral cooperation and the overall diplomatic situation. I am grateful to the Prime Minister for his warm words of support for our people.

I… pic.twitter.com/Lx9b3sMAbb

Story continues below Advertisement

Remove Ad

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) August 11, 2025

Zelensky earlier today warned against capitulating to the demands of President Vladimir Putin ahead of talks Friday between the Russian leader and US President Donald Trump.

The US-Russia summit -- so far planned without Zelensky -- will be the first between a sitting US and Russian president since 2021.

Kyiv is concerned that Trump and Putin could strike a deal requiring Ukraine to cede territory to Russia.

"Russia refuses to stop the killings, and therefore must not receive any rewards or benefits. And this is not just a moral position -- it is a rational one," Zelensky wrote in a statement published on social media.

"Concessions do not persuade a killer," he added.

Russia, which invaded Ukraine in early 2022, has been making costly but steady advances across the sprawling front line, and claimed to have captured the village of Fedorivka in the eastern Donetsk region.

Both sides have meanwhile stepped up aerial assaults, with Ukraine claiming to have hit a facility that produces missile components in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod region. Local authorities said one person was killed in the attack and two were wounded.