NEW DELHI – In a high-stakes diplomatic engagement, Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council Secretary, Rustem Umerov, held separate meetings with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday. The visit, viewed as a follow-up to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2024 visit to Kyiv, focused on the “frontline” military situation and the potential for a sustainable peace deal.
Focus on Diplomacy and Bilateral Ties
During the discussions, the Indian leadership reiterated its “principled position” that the ongoing conflict cannot be resolved on the battlefield.
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Ajit Doval received a detailed briefing from Umerov regarding current security assessments and reiterated India’s focus on a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.
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S. Jaishankar and Umerov reviewed the progress of bilateral agreements established during the Modi-Zelensky summit in August 2024, focusing on long-term cooperation.
Ukraine’s Perspective
Umerov, a close confidant of President Volodymyr Zelensky, expressed gratitude for the “open and substantive” dialogue. He highlighted that the talks covered the progress of negotiations and the prospects for achieving a “just and lasting peace” for Ukraine.
The Broader Context
The visit comes at a time when India continues to balance its historic ties with Russia alongside a growing partnership with Ukraine. By hosting top-tier Ukrainian officials, New Delhi remains a central hub for diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilizing global supply chains and encouraging a transition from war to the negotiating table.
