Ukrainian President Zelensky Set to Visit India Soon

Zelensky's Upcoming Visit to India

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to visit India shortly, as confirmed by Ukraine's ambassador, Oleksandr Polishchuk. Discussions are ongoing regarding the specific date for this visit. Last August, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended an invitation to Zelensky during his own visit to Ukraine. This will mark Zelensky's inaugural trip to India.

Strengthening Ties Between India and Ukraine

Polishchuk mentioned, 'We see potential for a strategic partnership between India and Ukraine. Prime Minister Modi has invited Zelensky to visit, and both sides are working on this. We are optimistic that President Zelensky will indeed come to India, which would be a significant achievement for our bilateral relations. We are trying to agree on a date.'

Modi's Tribute to Ukrainian Children

During his visit to Ukraine in August 2024, Prime Minister Modi paid tribute to children who lost their lives in the conflict at the Ukraine National Museum. Modi and Zelensky held a three-hour meeting at the Mariinsky Palace, where the invitation for Zelensky to visit India was extended.

Discussion on Oil Purchases

Following their meeting, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar revealed that the two leaders discussed India's oil purchases from Russia. He clarified that such decisions are made based on market conditions and are not politically motivated.

Putin's Upcoming Visit to India

Russian President Vladimir Putin is also scheduled to visit India in the last week of this year, as reported by a Russian news agency citing NSA Ajit Doval. This visit is considered significant amid ongoing trade tensions between India and the United States, especially after the U.S. imposed a 50% tariff on India, including a 25% penalty due to India's oil purchases from Russia.