External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Thursday as India reiterated its support for efforts to find a peaceful solution to the Russia-Ukraine war.
Jaishankar was in Ukraine for a one-day visit, days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed to Russian President Vladimir Putin that India was ready to assist in efforts to end the conflict. After meeting Jaishankar, Zelenskyy said Ukraine appreciated India’s commitment to peace. He stressed that the ongoing conflict must end and said Kyiv recognised India’s stated position that this is not an era of war.
The Ukrainian president also claimed that Russia launched jet-powered Shahed drones, allegedly with Iranian assistance, during Jaishankar’s visit. According to Zelenskyy, Ukrainian fighter jets intercepted most of the drones.
Zelenskyy Raises Black Sea Shipping Concerns
The two sides also discussed the security situation in the Black Sea, including threats to civilian vessels and disruptions to maritime trade. Zelenskyy said attacks or blockades affecting shipping were unacceptable, particularly when they threaten food supplies to vulnerable regions dependent on maritime routes.
He accused Russia of blocking Ukrainian ports and disrupting the country’s food corridor, warning that the consequences could extend beyond the region. Zelenskyy also called on the international community to take a clear position and work together to ensure maritime and regional security.
Jaishankar Highlights Indian Seafarers’ Safety
Jaishankar said India remained prepared to contribute in whatever way possible to efforts aimed at ending the prolonged conflict between Russia and Ukraine. He noted that the war has entered its fifth year and reiterated India’s consistent position that lasting solutions cannot come from the battlefield.
The External Affairs Minister also raised concerns over the safety of Indian seafarers amid attacks targeting commercial shipping. “Indian seafarers man ships of many flags and have been among the unfortunate casualties,” Jaishankar said, highlighting the wider impact of disruptions to maritime trade.
He added that the shipping crisis was affecting several countries in the Global South, contributing to shortages of fuel, fertilisers and food.
The Ministry of External Affairs said Jaishankar’s visit was aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between India and Ukraine. It also provided an opportunity for the two countries to exchange views on regional developments and matters of mutual interest.
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