Zelenskyy to Visit India Following PM’s Invitation, Dates Yet to Be Finalized: Ukrainian Envoy

Ukraine’s Ambassador to India, Oleksandr Polishchuk, has confirmed that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to visit India soon, following an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the exact dates still being finalised.

Speaking to ANI on Ukraine’s National Flag Day, Polishchuk said, “The Indian Prime Minister invited Zelensky to come to India. Both sides are working on this. We expect President Zelenskyy to be in India, definitely. It will be a great achievement in our bilateral relationship. We are trying to agree on a precise date.”

The ambassador emphasized India’s importance in peace negotiations due to its ties with Moscow and called for a greater Indian role in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. “We expect more Indian involvement in the peace-building process in Ukraine, particularly in political negotiations with the Russians,” he said.

Polishchuk noted that India’s position aligns with Kyiv’s vision for a peaceful resolution. “India supports peace and dialogue, and discussions with all partners, including the Russian Federation, aim to achieve peace in Ukraine,” he stated. He also recalled Prime Minister Modi’s earlier remarks that India is “not neutral” but firmly on the side of peace and dialogue.

Highlighting the strengthening ties between India and Ukraine since 2023, Polishchuk said both countries are exploring the potential for a future strategic partnership. “In relation to the declaration about a future strategic partnership between India and Ukraine, believe me, we have the potential for that,” he said. He added that India has engaged “very intensely” with Ukraine over the past year, with PM Modi and President Zelenskyy meeting several times at the UN.

On broader diplomatic efforts, the ambassador noted that Kyiv remains open to talks depending on Moscow’s approach and Western support. “The United States is one of our biggest supporters. My President clearly sent the message after the Alaska meeting that we are ready for talks,” he said, referring to Zelenskyy’s recent meeting with US President Donald Trump following Trump’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Polishchuk expressed hope that India will play a more active role in ending the conflict, leveraging its longstanding ties with Moscow. He also suggested that progress might be made during the upcoming UN General Assembly session in September.

Last week, President Zelenskyy extended greetings to Prime Minister Modi and the people of India on the occasion of the nation’s 79th Independence Day, expressing hope that India will play a significant role in global peace efforts, particularly in resolving the ongoing war with Russia.