Zelenskyy Thanks Modi on Ukraine’s Independence Day, Hopes for India’s Role in Ending War

Kyiv/New Delhi, August 26, 2025 – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his warm greetings on Ukraine’s Independence Day, reiterating Kyiv’s hope that India will play a significant role in bringing an end to the ongoing war with Russia.

In a social media post on Tuesday, Zelenskyy said, “Now, as the entire world strives to end this horrible war with dignity and lasting peace, we count on India’s contribution.” He also praised India’s consistent emphasis on peace and dialogue, adding that decisions that strengthen diplomacy contribute to security not just in Europe, but also in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

Diplomatic Exchange of Independence Day Greetings

On August 16, Prime Minister Modi extended greetings to the people of Ukraine, wishing them a future of “peace and progress.” In response, President Zelenskyy posted a letter he received from Modi on August 24, where the Indian leader thanked him for his thoughtful wishes on India’s Independence Day.

In his letter, Modi warmly recalled his visit to Kyiv in August last year, highlighting the progress in India-Ukraine bilateral ties since then. He reiterated India’s commitment to dialogue and diplomacy, stating, “India has always stood on the side of peace and remains committed to extending all possible support for sincere efforts seeking an early, abiding and peaceful resolution of the conflict.”

India’s Balancing Act

Since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in February 2022, India has walked a careful diplomatic path. New Delhi has consistently called for an immediate end to hostilities and emphasized the importance of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also maintaining its longstanding ties with Russia, a key defense and energy partner.

India has provided humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, including medical supplies, equipment, and relief aid, while avoiding direct criticism of Moscow. This approach has allowed India to engage with both Russia and Western powers, positioning itself as a potential mediator in future peace talks.

Ukraine’s Call for Greater Involvement

President Zelenskyy has repeatedly invited India to take a more active role in peace efforts, underscoring New Delhi’s growing influence on the global stage. In recent months, Ukraine has welcomed India’s participation in international conferences aimed at finding pathways to peace, while urging the Modi government to support frameworks that guarantee Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty.

Zelenskyy’s latest remarks come at a delicate time, with the international community pushing for renewed negotiations. His appeal reflects Kyiv’s recognition of India’s diplomatic weight in both the Global South and in forums like the G20, where India has advocated for dialogue as the only viable route to a lasting resolution.

Geopolitical Context

The exchange also comes amid heightened global tensions. Reports indicate that a U.S. tariff deadline on Indian imports related to Russian crude purchases is looming, adding economic pressure to India’s careful diplomacy. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to seek greater support from Asian powers, beyond traditional Western allies, to broaden international consensus against Russian aggression.

By keeping open communication channels with both Kyiv and Moscow, India has emerged as a credible voice for de-escalation, with several Western and European leaders encouraging New Delhi to step up its mediating role.

As the war drags on, with no immediate breakthrough in sight, both Kyiv and the wider international community are looking for alternative diplomatic initiatives. Zelenskyy’s call for India’s involvement underscores the expectations placed on New Delhi as a nation capable of bridging divides and supporting pathways to peace.

For India, the challenge remains to balance its strategic autonomy while upholding its stated commitment to global peace. The coming months will show whether New Delhi can translate its diplomatic capital into a tangible role in shaping the endgame of one of the world’s most dangerous conflicts.