Earlier, PM Modi reaffirmed India's principled stand and commitment to a peaceful solution to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.

The US has welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Ukraine, saying it could be helpful if it helps end the Russia-Ukraine conflict. “India is a strong partner of the US and so is the Prime Minister. And, … he goes to Kiev and is having a conversation with (Ukraine) President (Volodymyr) Zelensky about where and how it all ends — if it can help us end the conflict that aligns with President Zelensky's vision. Just peace, OK, so we think that would be helpful,” White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby said at a press conference on Friday when asked if Prime Minister Modi's visit was potentially fruitful.

“If there is another country willing to help in terms of ending the war in Ukraine, we welcome it. But by helpful, we mean that it should include a conversation with the Ukrainian people and start with understanding where President Zelensky stands on this,” he said.

Earlier, during his talks with Zelenskyi on Friday, Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India's principled stand and commitment to a peaceful solution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. He reiterated India's readiness to contribute “in all possible ways” to speedy restoration of peace in the region.

“My visit to Ukraine was historic. I have come to this great nation with the intention of strengthening India-Ukraine friendship. I had a fruitful discussion with President Zelensky. India firmly believes that peace must prevail. I thank the government and people of Ukraine for their hospitality,” PM Modi said after bilateral talks in Kiev.

Prime Minister Modi thanked Zelensky and the Ukrainian authorities for their help in safely evacuating Indian students from the warzone weeks after the conflict began in February 2022.

A joint statement issued after one-on-one and delegation-level talks noted that the two leaders stressed the need for “honest and pragmatic engagement” among all parties that would be universally accepted by all parties and contribute to the speedy restoration of peace. .

It also stated that the two leaders expressed mutual interest in working to improve bilateral relations from a comprehensive partnership to a strategic partnership in the future.