EAM S Jaishankar says India was 'never' neutral in Russia-Ukraine war

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday cleared air on India's stance in the long-standing Russia-Ukraine war, saying it was never neutral.

Addressing the media on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ukraine, the minister said that the subcontinent sides with peace. "It is India's view that the two sides need to engage with each other to find a solution," Jaishankar said.

PM Modi's one-day 'historic' visit to war-hit Ukraine marked the first by an Indian PM since 1991.


"President Zelenskyy knows we mean well by Ukraine, we want these conflict to come to an end. If there is anything we can do in any way in sort of upfront, behind or supporting anybody, we are willing to do whatever we can. This conflict must end, we believe," S Jaishankar said.

The Indian minister also said that much of discussions between the two leaders, PM Modi and President Zelenskyy, was with regard to the war in Ukraine.

Furthermore, Jaishankar also revealed that Modi spoke about his recent discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. "PM Modi sought Ukraine President's assessment both of ground situation and diplomatic scenario; Zelenskyy spoke on both issues," EAM said.

On imposing sanctions amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Jaishankar said, "We (India) do not impose sanctions on any country, that is not part of our diplomacy. Moreover, we expect both sides to work out a solution. We're sure even Ukraine wants an end to the conflict. But it has to be a two-way conversation."

Jaishankar also said that India is hopeful of President Zelenskyy's visit to India, whenever he can. "PM Modi did extend an invitation to him."

In talks with Zelenskyy, PM Modi shared wide-spread sentiment in Global South about the repercussions of this conflict, Jaishankar briefed the media. There were discussions on trade, economic issues, defence, pharmaceuticals, agricurture, education, he said.