PM Modi, President Putin Discuss Ukraine Situation and Strengthen Strategic Partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, focusing on the ongoing situation in Ukraine and the evolution of India-Russia relations.
During their discussion, President Putin provided Modi with an update on recent developments in Ukraine. Modi expressed gratitude for the comprehensive briefing and reiterated India's steadfast stance, which advocates for resolving issues peacefully through dialogue.
The leaders evaluated the status of their Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, emphasizing their dedication to enhancing collaboration in trade, defense, and energy sectors. Modi also invited Putin to visit India later this year for the 23rd Annual Bilateral Summit, aiming to invigorate strategic and economic ties between the two countries.
This conversation occurred amidst an active phase of Russian diplomatic outreach. Earlier that day, Putin had addressed US peace proposals for Ukraine during discussions with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, following a meeting with Steve Witkoff, the envoy of US President Donald Trump. Putin has tentatively agreed to a meeting with Trump, with the location yet to be finalized.
Additionally, Putin shared insights from his recent talks with the US envoy during a briefing with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi expressed support for a sustainable resolution to the Ukraine conflict. These interactions underscore a heightened phase of global diplomacy concerning the war and broader strategic alliances.