Modi: India Supports Ukraine's Territorial Integrity

JAKARTA Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that he supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine.

"We are not neutral," Modi told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kiev, Friday, August 23.

"Our goal is peace and I come here with a message of peace," he added.

Modi was the first Indian prime minister to visit Ukraine since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1991.

Expressing deep pain over civilian casualties, Modi told Zelenskyy that India supports Ukraine.

Since Moscow launched a special military operation in Ukraine, India has not condemned Russia's war on its neighbor.

As a major US ally, India has had historical ties to Russia since the Cold War era.

Modi's trip to Kiev comes weeks after he visited Russia to meet President Vladimir Putin.

"For the sake of peace, as a friend, I am ready to contribute," Modi told Zelenskyy.

He then said dialogue and diplomacy were a way out.

"The conflict is devastating for children. My heart is focused on the families of children who have lost their lives, and I pray that they will find the strength to bear their sadness," said Modi.