(Image source from: Oneindia.com)
Russia aims to achieve a 'calm resolution' for the situation in Ukraine, which is a conflict that started in February 2022 when Moscow began it. President Vladimir Putin shared this proposal with India on Friday morning during a joint statement with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi. The Prime Minister reiterated India's stance as a 'promoter of peace' and mentioned that Delhi favors a solution that comes from conversation and diplomacy rather than further military action. "We advocate for a peaceful outcome," the Prime Minister stated, reaffirming India's unchanged stance regarding Ukraine since the conflict started. Previously, the PM has emphasized that "this is not a time for war." The two leaders met today at Hyderabad House in Delhi.
Putin is visiting India for two days; he arrived in Delhi on Thursday to a warm welcome that featured a hug from the PM and an offer to travel in his personal car, a specially designed Toyota Fortuner. The fact that Putin chose not to use his usual armoured limousine, the Aurus Senat, which he typically brings for state visits, and instead traveled with the PM highlights the friendly relationship between the two leaders, according to sources. Overall, Putin's trip to India has drawn keen interest from the West, which was highlighted by a joint article from the German, British, and French ambassadors published this week, much to Delhi's dissatisfaction. This visit has gained more importance due to the cooling of relations between India and the United States, largely influenced by trade tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump's administration. Regarding these tariffs—once as high as 50 percent—Putin noted that the US still purchases nuclear fuel from Russia. "That is also fuel... If they are allowed to buy our fuel, why can't India?".
India's acquisition of Russian oil, even with sanctions resulting from the conflict in Ukraine, has strained its relationship with the US, along with New Delhi's long-established dependence on Moscow for military supplies. However, crude oil imports are expected to reach a three-year low this month due to the US tariffs. Still, India has defended its ongoing trade, including oil purchases. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has stated repeatedly that the West needs to move beyond the idea that "Europe's issues are the world's issues, but the world's issues are not Europe's issues." Consequently, strengthening defense partnerships, shielding India-Russia trade from outside pressures, and exploring collaborative efforts in small modular reactors are likely to be the main topics during Putin's visit.
