On Monday, July 15, India expressed its dissatisfaction with Ukraine's position after President Volodymyr Zelenskyi's critical remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The discussion took place between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of India and the ambassador of Ukraine, which indicates the seriousness of the situation.
Earlier, Zelensky criticized Modi's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his recent visit to Moscow, calling it a "devastating blow to peace efforts." He emphasized that "it is sad to see how the leader of the world's largest democracy hugs the most famous criminal." This statement caused a negative reaction from India.
In response to Zelenskyi's comments, India's Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Ukrainian ambassador to discuss the incident. This decision demonstrates that Delhi takes seriously the statements of the Ukrainian leader and their impact on bilateral relations. In addition, India decided to postpone the meeting of the joint working group on cultural issues, which may indicate an intention to reconsider cooperation with Ukraine.
Prime Minister Modi paid a two-day visit to Russia for the 22nd annual India Summit after a gap of three years. The last summit was held in December 2021 with the participation of Putin. Modi's visit highlighted the importance of economic partnership between the countries, with the Prime Minister saying: "Take war, any conflict or acts of terrorism: any person who believes in humanity feels pain when people die, especially when innocent children".
Indian-Ukrainian relations have always remained difficult due to several factors. First, Ukraine's military ties with Pakistan caused concern in Delhi. Secondly, Ukraine's criticism of India's nuclear tests in 1998, as well as opposition to India's position on Kashmir at the UN, significantly complicate diplomatic relations between the countries.
