Russian President Vladimir Putin has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s continued efforts to promote a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, saying the Indian leader has “very good ideas” for finding mutually acceptable solutions.
Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club on October 1, Putin said Modi regularly raises the issue of ending the conflict during their meetings, despite the close relationship between India and Russia. Putin described Modi’s position as neutral but focused on bringing the conflict to an end and thanked him for his efforts.
Putin said Modi has shown a strong interest in finding a settlement and has consistently advocated for resolving the conflict through peaceful means and dialogue.
Modi’s continued call for dialogue
India has repeatedly maintained that dialogue and diplomacy are important to resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Modi has also said that India is willing to support meaningful efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful settlement.
During a written interview with Japan’s Yomiuri Shimbun in August, Modi said India’s relations with both Russia and Ukraine could allow it to contribute to efforts aimed at restoring peace. He also said India had maintained a “principled and humanitarian” position on the conflict.
Modi and Putin meet in New Delhi
Putin’s comments came weeks after he and Modi met in New Delhi on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit on September 11.
According to India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the two leaders reviewed bilateral cooperation in areas including trade, defence, energy, space, infrastructure and people-to-people ties. They also discussed broader regional and international developments.
The September meeting was the second face-to-face interaction between Modi and Putin in 2026, following their meeting in Bishkek on August 31 during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.
Putin reiterates position on tensions with Europe
At the Valdai forum, Putin also addressed growing tensions between Russia and European countries. He reiterated Moscow’s position that Russia does not intend to attack European countries, while warning that Russia would respond to what it considers aggression with the weapons at its disposal.
Putin also criticised European military preparations and exercises, portraying them as contributing to heightened tensions with Moscow. European officials and intelligence agencies, meanwhile, have publicly warned about the possibility of future Russian military action beyond Ukraine.
Putin’s remarks come as diplomatic efforts surrounding the Russia-Ukraine conflict continue, with India maintaining its stated support for dialogue and a peaceful resolution.
