New Delhi: India and Russia are gearing up for a visit by President Vladimir Putin, though the exact dates have yet to be confirmed, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov revealed on Tuesday.
As Ukraine marked the somber milestone of 1,000 days since Russia’s invasion, Peskov acknowledged India’s significant role in the ongoing crisis, describing the country as a “great friend” to Moscow. “We hope to finalize the dates for President Putin’s visit soon,” Peskov shared during a virtual media briefing hosted by Sputnik News Agency. He added, “After two visits by Prime Minister Modi to Russia, we now eagerly await President Putin’s visit to India. We are preparing with great anticipation.”
While Peskov expressed optimism, sources close to the matter indicated that the visit is more likely to occur in 2025. Putin’s last visit to India was in December 2021 for an annual summit, marking this potential visit as the first since the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict in 2022.
On the topic of Indian mediation in the Russia-Ukraine war, Peskov noted that Russia had no concrete plans for such mediation. “We are aware that Prime Minister Modi has a pragmatic relationship with President Putin and continues his engagement with Ukraine,” he said. Peskov emphasized that Modi’s ability to maintain communication with both sides of the conflict was vital in forming a well-rounded understanding of the situation.
Peskov expressed appreciation for India’s efforts in addressing the ongoing crisis, stating, “Russia appreciates every country’s efforts to assist in resolving the Ukraine crisis, especially from close friends like India.” He also highlighted President Putin’s respect for Modi’s involvement in global peace efforts and reiterated Russia’s openness to any initiative aimed at resolving the conflict.
Prime Minister Modi’s diplomatic approach has centered on urging both sides to engage in dialogue, stressing that peace cannot be achieved through force. Modi has consistently emphasized the importance of communication between the warring parties to ensure a sustainable resolution to the crisis.
Regarding peace talks, Peskov pointed to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent decree that forbids negotiations with Russia, deeming any immediate talks unlikely. “The war will conclude once we achieve our objectives,” Peskov remarked, underscoring Russia’s firm stance on its goals in Ukraine.
Peskov also addressed speculation surrounding the potential return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency. While he acknowledged uncertainty about Trump’s position on the war, Peskov noted that during his campaign, Trump had expressed support for peace, although he recognized that resolving the conflict would take time.
Turning to India’s dual membership in the Quad and BRICS, Peskov reaffirmed Russia’s respect for India’s sovereignty and its pursuit of diverse international partnerships. “India faces significant pressure from the U.S. over its ties with Russia, but we are confident that, together, we will overcome this pressure,” Peskov stated.
On India-China relations, Peskov indicated Russia’s willingness to support efforts to normalize ties between the two countries. Although Russia was not involved in facilitating the recent meeting between Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit, Peskov expressed Moscow’s readiness to contribute to the process of improving relations between India and China.
As global efforts to end the war continue, Russia remains committed to its diplomatic approach, navigating complex international relationships while pursuing its objectives in Ukraine.
