PM Modi Invites Zelenskyy; Ukraine Envoy Hails India’s “Not Neutral” Stance

Why in News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to visit India. The Ukrainian envoy to India, Oleksandr Polishchuk, praised India’s position in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, calling it “not neutral,” marking a significant development in India’s foreign policy posture.

Key Points

1. Prime Minister Modi has extended an official invitation to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy; the visit date is being coordinated by both sides.
2. The invitation was initially extended during Modi’s visit to Kyiv in August 2024.
3. Ukraine’s Ambassador Oleksandr Polishchuk acknowledged India’s consistent high-level diplomatic engagement with Ukraine since 2023, including meetings at the G20 and UN platforms.
4. The envoy emphasized that India’s position is “not neutral” but reflects a commitment to peace, diplomacy, and international law.
5. Zelenskyy’s visit is likely to coincide with the UN General Assembly session in September 2025, where both leaders may engage in bilateral talks.
6. India continues to maintain strategic relations with Russia while increasing diplomatic outreach to Ukraine, highlighting its multipolar approach to global affairs.

Explained

Strategic Rebalancing in Global Diplomacy

India’s invitation to Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian envoy’s comments signify a subtle shift in India’s diplomatic positioning in the Russia–Ukraine conflict. While maintaining relations with Russia, India is now engaging Ukraine at the highest levels, aiming to balance its strategic interests with its advocacy for global peace.

Active Role in Conflict Mediation

Unlike early phases of the war where India was perceived as silent or neutral, recent diplomatic gestures—like the invitation to Zelenskyy and increasing bilateral dialogue—indicate India’s willingness to play a mediator role in conflict resolution.

Evolution of India’s Strategic Autonomy

India's foreign policy has historically been centered around non-alignment and strategic autonomy. By taking a “not neutral” stance, India showcases a more mature diplomatic identity—asserting moral leadership while navigating partnerships with both NATO-aligned countries and Russia.

UNGA as a Diplomatic Platform

The likely meeting between Modi and Zelenskyy during the 2025 UNGA session reflects India’s intention to use multilateral platforms not just for statements, but for strategic bilateral engagement with conflict-affected nations.

Impact on Global Perceptions

The Ukrainian envoy's statement strengthens India’s image as a responsible global actor. It also demonstrates that India’s soft power and moral diplomacy are being recognized by nations directly involved in major global conflicts.

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