We must move away from endless war: PM Modi's message to Putin on Ukraine war

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to move towards ending the Ukraine war, saying every day spent in conflict sets humanity back and calling for the peaceful resolution of all issues.

Modi made the remarks during a bilateral meeting with Putin in Bishkek, where the two leaders also discussed the broader trajectory of India-Russia ties.

"We have consistently discussed the issue of Ukraine. When we met previously, you briefed me in detail on all aspects of the matter. As you know, India supports all efforts towards peace and will continue to do so. Every day spent in war sets humanity back, whereas every step taken towards peace fills humanity with new hope and enthusiasm. We must move away from endless war towards an end to the war. This is essential for the well-being of humanity. A peaceful resolution to all issues at the earliest is the call of humanity, and this is India’s message. The land of Gandhi and the land of Buddha share a single message: the path of peace. Today, I look forward to discussing these matters with you."

Putin, meanwhile, highlighted the strengthening of bilateral relations and said Russia and India continue to build their ties on the basis of a "special and privileged partnership".

"...I would like to note with satisfaction that Russian-Indian relations continue to strengthen on the basis of the principles of a special and privileged partnership. Distinguished Prime Minister, this is aided by your special attention to Russian-Indian relations and the business and friendly relations that have been established between us. I am very grateful to you for that."

A translator, conveying Putin's remarks, also said that around 40,000 Indian students are currently studying in Russia, with the number having increased sevenfold in recent years. The two countries also hold cultural festivals and have witnessed growing tourist flows, with mutual tourism rising 16 per cent, he said.

Russia and India also coordinate closely at the United Nations, BRICS, the G20 and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Putin said, adding that the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss future cooperation.

Modi also invited Putin to the upcoming BRICS Summit in India.

"India is hosting the BRICS Summit in a few days, and all Indians are eager to welcome you and your delegation. Your visit will strengthen our bilateral relations and further reinforce dialogue and cooperation within the BRICS framework."

The Prime Minister also recalled Putin's visit to India last year and underlined the steady expansion of bilateral cooperation.

"Your visit to India last year was highly successful and truly memorable... It is a matter of deep satisfaction for us that our cooperation continues to scale new heights and that we are working together for the welfare of the people of both nations. Moving forward with national interest as the paramount priority has been our shared approach, and this will remain our guiding principle in the future as well."

Modi and Putin later attended the opening ceremony of the VI World Nomad Games at Bishkek Arena. The Games are being held from August 31 to September 6, 2026.