Bhubaneswar: Ukraine envoy to India Igor Polikha has sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s help to deescalate the situation in the region with Russia launching a military attack to defend separatists in the east of the country, called the Donbas region, on Thursday.
“India has a special relationship with Russia and New Delhi can play a more active role in controlling the situation (Russia-Ukraine crisis). We urge PM Narendra Modi to immediately contact Russian President Vladimir Putin and our President Volodymyr Zelensky,” Ukrainian Ambassador to India Igor Polikha has said.
He also confirmed the invasion and bombs and missile attacks on Ukrainian aerodromes, military airports and military installations.
Stating that India is an influential global player and has a history of diplomacy, he pleaded the support of India.
“In the case of aggression of a totalitarian regime against a democratic state, India should fully assume its global role. Modiji is one of the most powerful and respected leaders in the world,” Igor Polikha said.
“He [PM Modi] had a special relationship with Russia. I don’t know how many leaders will Putin listen to. But, with Modi ji’s special partnership, he could play a role. Hope for a favourable role of the Indian government. It’s the moment of truth, the moment of destiny,” he added.
While declaring war against Ukraine, Putin had categorically warned the West against any kind of interference. “To anyone who would consider interfering from the outside – if you do, you will face consequences greater than any you have faced in history,” he said on a television broadcast.
India is, on the other hand, focused on assisting its nationals, especially students, in Ukraine. As per estimates, over 15,000 Indians are currently staying there.
