White House Says India Can Urge Putin to End Ukraine War
The White House has highlighted India’s unique position to influence Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This statement came after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the importance of dialogue over warfare to resolve the conflict.
India’s Role in Promoting Peace
During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre described India as a strategic partner with whom the US maintains open and honest discussions, including about India’s ties with Russia. She emphasized the need for all nations, including India, to support efforts for lasting peace in Ukraine.
Jean-Pierre stated, “We believe India’s long-standing relationship with Russia gives it the ability to urge President Putin to end his brutal, unprovoked war in Ukraine. It is for President Putin to end. President Putin started the war, and he can end the war.”
PM Modi’s Message to Putin
During his bilateral talks with President Putin, PM Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives, particularly children, in the conflict. He stated, “Be it war, conflicts, terror attacks – everyone who believes in humanity is pained when there is loss of lives. But when innocent children are murdered, it is heart-wrenching.”
Modi reiterated that solutions cannot be found on the battlefield and that peace can only be achieved through dialogue. He said, “As a friend, I have always said that for the bright future of our coming generations, peace is of utmost importance. But I also know that solutions are not possible on battlegrounds. Amid bombs, guns and bullets, solutions and peace talks do not succeed. We will have to follow the path to peace only through talks.”
Reactions from Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed disappointment over PM Modi’s visit to Russia, especially following a recent missile strike on a children’s hospital in Kyiv that killed 37 people, including three children. Zelenskyy criticized Modi’s visit, calling it a “devastating blow to peace efforts.”
PM Modi was on a two-day official visit to Russia from July 8-9, during which he held a bilateral meeting with President Putin and addressed the Indian community in Moscow.
