US believes India’s relationship with Russia may help end Ukraine war

The White House believes that India's close relationship with Russia provides it with a unique ability to influence Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine. The statement from the White House has come after PM Modi emphasised to President Putin that the solution to the Ukraine conflict laid in dialogue and not on the battlefield.

While addressing a press briefing, Karine Jean-Pierre, White House Press Secretary, called India the US' "strategic partner" with whom they hold "full and frank dialogue", including their ties with Russia. She called it critical that all nations, including India support efforts to realise an enduring peace when it comes to Ukraine.

#WATCH | White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean Pierre says, "...We believe India's long-standing relationship with Russia gives it the ability to urge President Putin, to end his brutal war, an unprovoked war in Ukraine...India is a strategic partner with whom we engage in… pic.twitter.com/6JbTeReM1w

— ANI (@ANI) July 10, 2024

The Press Secretary Jean-Pierre made the statement after PM Modi held bilateral talks with Russian President Putin, he raised the issue of killings of children during conflicts and said it is "heart-wrenching" when innocent children die. According to the prime minister, every person who has faith in humanity feels hurt when lives are lost. This follows the recent missile attack that claimed the lives of 37 children at a children's hospital in Kiev.

India’s balancing act

This view reflects the broader geopolitical context in which India has maintained strong ties with Russia, even as it strengthens its partnerships with Western countries. The US sees India's potential role as a mediator or influencer as crucial, given its strategic position and longstanding connections with Russia.

India's balancing act between its relationships with Russia and Western nations has been a significant aspect of its foreign policy, particularly in the context of the Ukraine conflict. The US likely views India's influence as a valuable asset in diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.

Zelenskyy expressed disappointment

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the president of Ukraine, voiced disappointment earlier on Tuesday regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's travel to Russia, describing it as a "devastating blow to peace efforts."

Zelenskyy posted on social networking site X that the main children's hospital in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, was struck by a Russian missile on the same day, resulting in the deaths of 37 people, including three children, and the injuries of 170 more.