Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine.

During talks in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, he emphasized that, in his view, every additional day of the conflict represents a step backward for all of humanity. India is prepared to support all peace initiatives aimed at stopping the fighting and intends to continue doing so in the future.

Modi referred to Putin as his friend and emphasized the growing economic ties between India and Russia.

The energy sector also has a significant impact on these ties. India, along with China, is among the largest buyers of Russian oil, the sale of which has helped Moscow following the imposition of Western sanctions. Putin responded to Modi’s call by saying that Russia is moving in this direction.

The Kremlin subsequently stated that the Russian president also briefed the Indian prime minister on the progress of the war. However, Moscow continues to make the war’s end contingent on its own demands, which Ukraine rejects.

(Reuters, mja)