Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modiin his interaction with the Russian counterpart Wladimir Putin, said today’s era is not an era of war and criticized Putin’s decision to invade Ukraine.
What happened: Putin and Modi held talks on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Uzbekistan, where the two leaders discussed bilateral issues related to Russia’s war in Ukraine.
“I know today’s era is not [an era] from war. We have discussed this issue with you several times by phone, that democracy, diplomacy and dialogue touch the whole world,” Modi said.
Putin responded that he understood India’s position and concerns about its “special military operation” in Ukraine, adding that the Kremlin “wants all of this to end as soon as possible”.
“We will do everything we can to stop this as soon as possible. Unfortunately, the other side, the leadership of Ukraine, announced its opposition to the negotiation process and said that it wants to achieve its goals by military means,” he said.
Meanwhile, the White House quickly got involved in the conversation and relayed its version to Moscow. John KirbyStrategic Communications Coordinator for the National Security Council In the White House, said: “What you are hearing from China and India reflects global concerns about the impact of Russian aggression on Ukraine.”
“I think what you’ve heard in Uzbekistan from both the leaders of China and India indicates that Mr. Putin doesn’t have many listening ears out there about what he’s doing in Ukraine,” Kirby added. He noted that Putin “is only further isolating himself from the international community.”
Photo: Courtesy of MEA photo gallery on flickr
