PM Modi talks with Putin, calls for 'cessation of violence'

India has historically had close ties with Russia, and Moscow is a major supplier of arms to the South Asian nation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin and called for a cessation of violence and return to negotiation to resolve the conflict over Ukraine.

Modi was the second leader to have a discussion with Putin after the Russian President ordered the launch of military operations against Ukraine. He earlier on the day had a meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently on a visit to Moscow.

Even as Russia continued bombing several cities in Ukraine, Modi reiterated to Putin his long-standing conviction that the differences between Russia and NATO could only be resolved through “honest and sincere dialogue”.

Also Read | Indian students in Ukraine make tearful pleas to govt for safe return

Putin briefed Modi about recent developments regarding Ukraine. The Prime Minister appealed for an immediate cessation of violence and called for concerted efforts from all sides to return to the path of diplomatic negotiations and dialogue, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Modi also sensitised the Russian President about India's concerns regarding the safety of the Indian citizens in Ukraine, especially students, and conveyed that India attaches the highest priority to their safe exit and return to India.

The leaders agreed that their officials and diplomatic teams would continue to maintain regular contacts on issues of topical interest.

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