Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov has said that Russia and India are broadly aligned in their approach to achieving peace in the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing dialogue and negotiations as the way forward. His remarks come shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, where the two leaders discussed the Ukraine conflict along with other international issues.
According to Alipov, Moscow remains ready for negotiations and believes that the next move rests with Kyiv. He described Russia and India as being “on the same page” regarding the need for a peaceful resolution, while arguing that Ukraine and some European countries continue to favour a military approach. The statement reflects the continuing diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Moscow as the Russia-Ukraine war enters its fifth year.
India has consistently called for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the conflict. During his August 31 meeting with Putin, Modi said the war must end for the sake of humanity and reiterated that India would support every effort aimed at stopping the fighting.
The latest developments come as diplomatic activity around the conflict shows renewed signs of movement. Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently indicated that a peace agreement could be possible, while discussions involving US representatives and both Moscow and Kyiv are also being pursued. However, significant differences between Russia and Ukraine remain, meaning that a comprehensive settlement is still uncertain.
For India, the issue also carries wider strategic importance because of its long-standing relationship with Russia. New Delhi has maintained communication with Moscow while simultaneously advocating dialogue and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. India’s position allows it to maintain strategic ties with Russia while presenting itself as a potential bridge for diplomatic engagement.
Alipov’s latest comments therefore underline the continued convergence between India and Russia on the importance of negotiations, even as the two countries navigate a complicated international environment surrounding the Ukraine war.