PM Modi Speaks to Putin, Calls for Immediate End to Violence, Raises Safety of Indians in Ukraine

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for a “return to the path of diplomacy” and appealed for an immediate cessation of violence between Russia and Ukraine, in a telephonic conversation with President Vladimir Putin late on Thursday. He also raised concerns about the safety of Indian nationals, including students, stranded in Ukraine and told the Russian premier that India was attaching the highest priority in safely evacuating its citizens.

According to a press release issued by the prime minister’s office (PMO), Putin briefed Prime Minister Modi about his “special operation” against Ukraine, in which Russia launched a full-blown attack by land, sea and air on its neighbouring country. It is being called the biggest attack by one state against another in Europe since World War II.