By D. Maan, Jadetimes News
Zelensky Criticizes Modi's Moscow Visit
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Moscow as a “huge disappointment and a devastating blow to peace efforts,” coinciding with a Russian missile attack on a children’s hospital in Kyiv. Zelensky expressed his dismay on social media, criticizing Modi for meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin on the same day that Russian forces launched a deadly assault on Ukrainian cities, killing at least 39 people.
Modi's Stance on Conflict and Peace
During his two day trip to Russia, Modi met with Putin at the Kremlin but did not directly address the missile strikes. Instead, he emphasized that solutions to conflicts should come through peace and dialogue rather than war. Modi expressed his sorrow over the deaths of innocent children and reiterated his belief in the necessity of peace for future prosperity. He assured Putin and the world that India supports peace and expressed hope for a resolution after discussions with the Russian president.
Intensified Russian Attacks on Ukraine
The large scale Russian bombardment targeted Kyiv and other cities, including Dnipro, Kryvyi Rih, Slovyansk, and Kramatorsk. In Kyiv, 29 people were killed, including two at the Okhmatdyt children’s hospital, where at least 16 others were injured. The hospital, Ukraine’s largest children’s medical center, plays a critical role in treating the country’s sickest children. Videos showed volunteers and security services working to clear the rubble, with hospital staff rushing children to safety during the attack.
International Reactions and Russia's Defense Claims
The attack forced medical workers to treat patients outside amidst chaos and debris, with UN human rights chief Volker Turk highlighting the dire conditions. Russia's defense ministry claimed that its strikes targeted Ukrainian military industrial facilities and air bases, and alleged, without evidence, that the damage to the hospital was caused by a Ukrainian air defense missile. This claim has been met with skepticism as the international community continues to grapple with the impact of the ongoing conflict.
Modi and Putin's Meeting in Moscow
On Tuesday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held official talks at the Kremlin. Earlier in the day, they visited an exhibition center featuring a pavilion on the nuclear industry. The day before, Putin welcomed Modi to his Novo Ogaryovo residence, greeting him as a “dear friend.” Modi expressed gratitude for the hospitality and anticipated their discussions would strengthen the friendship between India and Russia.
Strengthening India Russia Ties
Modi's visit signifies the close relationship between New Delhi and Moscow despite Russia's increasing reliance on China. This trip is seen as undermining Western efforts to isolate Putin. India, which depends on Russia for military equipment and has increased purchases of discounted Russian crude oil, continues to maintain strong economic ties. Modi’s office stated that the visit aimed to review all aspects of bilateral cooperation and discuss regional and global issues. The United States has expressed concerns over India’s relationship with Russia, urging India to advocate for Ukraine's sovereignty.
Global Reactions and Context
The visit occurs as US President Joe Biden prepares for a critical NATO summit, where further support for Ukraine is expected to be announced. Biden condemned the recent Russian missile strikes in Kyiv, including an attack on a children’s hospital, as a reminder of Russia's brutality. He emphasized the importance of global solidarity with Ukraine to counter Russian aggression. Meanwhile, trade between India and Russia reached nearly $65 billion in 2023 to 24, highlighting the importance of Modi’s discussions with Putin in addressing the trade imbalance and enhancing cooperation.
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