New Delhi: As Russian forces attacked cities in Ukraine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi dialled Russian president Vladimir Putin on Thursday night, appealing for an “immediate cessation of violence” and stressed that India concern the highest importance to the safe exit of its citizens from Ukraine.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office said PM Modi called for “concerted efforts from all sides to return to the path of diplomatic negotiations and dialogue”.
He reiterated his “long-standing conviction that the differences between Russia and the NATO group can only be resolved through honest and sincere dialogue,” the statement read.
President Putin had briefed PM Modi about the recent developments regarding Ukraine.
The Prime Minister also discussed India’s concerns regarding the safety of Indian citizens in Ukraine, especially students. India, he said, attaches the highest priority to their safe exit and return.
“The leaders agreed that their officials and diplomatic teams would continue to maintain regular contacts on issues of topical interest,” the statement added.
Russia started military operations against Ukraine on Thursday morning after months of tension over the former Soviet republic’s proximity to NATO.
