War Situation: Ukraine Minister Says India Should Be Involved, Wants Modi To Visit Kyiv

New Delhi: Ukraine delivered a strong message to India vis-à-vis Russia’s military operation back home since February last year.

Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova, who is on a four-day visit to India, said on Monday that Kyiv wanted New Delhi to be more involved in helping resolve its conflict with Russia and also urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other top officials to travel to her country.

In an interview with CNBC TV18, Emine also said that Kyiv expects India to invite Ukrainian officials to participate in G20 events. India holds the G20 presidency this year and is hosting several meets and a leaders’ summit in September.

Russia is one of India’s long-time allies, and New Delhi has not been too critical of Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine.

The Indian government has always advocated a diplomatic solution to the conflict in Ukraine, even as PM Modi has told Russian President Vladimir Putin that now is “not an era of war.”

“We believe India should be engaged and involved in the Ukraine issue to a great extent,” Emine said.

“We believe intensification of political dialogue on the highest level is first step towards this big goal. My president is requesting a phone conversation with the Prime Minister (Modi). We are looking forward to welcome him in Kyiv one day,” she added.

India has ramped up purchase of Russian oil while the USA and some European nations are in favour of buying less or ban it.

Speaking to reporters, Emine said India should be pragmatic in securing its resources, including energy and defence equipment, while warning against dependence on Russia.

“We only think it is crucial to diversify all of the resources, not only energy but also military resources. When you are dependent from Russia, they always use this blackmail instrument,” Emine said.