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Zelenskyy Expresses Gratitude to Modi on Ukraine's Independence Day

Kyiv: On Tuesday, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his Independence Day wishes, emphasizing Ukraine's reliance on India's support to help conclude the ongoing conflict with Russia.

In a post on social media, Zelenskyy acknowledged India's commitment to fostering 'peace and dialogue'.

"As the global community seeks to bring an end to this devastating war with dignity and lasting peace, we look to India for its contributions," he stated.

He further remarked, "Every diplomatic effort enhances security not just in Europe, but also in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond."

On August 16, Prime Minister Modi extended his wishes for a peaceful and progressive future to the Ukrainian people while thanking Zelenskyy for his Independence Day greetings.

Zelenskyy had previously wished India well on its Independence Day, expressing hope that New Delhi would play a role in efforts to resolve the conflict with Russia.

In a message on X, Modi responded, "Thank you, President Zelensky, for your warm greetings. I truly value our shared commitment to strengthening ties between India and Ukraine. We sincerely wish our friends in Ukraine a future filled with peace, progress, and prosperity."

On Tuesday, Zelenskyy shared a letter from Modi dated August 24, which expressed gratitude for the Ukrainian president's thoughtful message and kind wishes on India's Independence Day.

Reflecting on his visit to Kyiv in August of the previous year, Modi expressed his eagerness to enhance 'our mutually beneficial cooperation'.

"I also take this opportunity to extend my greetings to you and the people of Ukraine on your Independence Day. I fondly remember my visit to Kyiv last August and have noted the advancements in India-Ukraine relations since then. I look forward to collaborating with you to further strengthen our mutually beneficial cooperation," he wrote.

Modi reiterated India's longstanding position in favor of peace and its commitment to providing all possible support for sincere efforts aimed at achieving an early, lasting, and peaceful resolution to the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.

Zelenskyy's remarks come as the August 27 deadline approaches for the 50 percent 'punitive tariffs' imposed by the US on India for purchasing Russian crude oil.