In an interview, Zelensky was asked whether he thinks the US sanctions on Russia have backfired, given the recent Modi-Putin bonhomie seen at the SCO Summit.
New Delhi, Sep 7:
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has voiced support for US tariffs on countries like India that continue to maintain strong economic ties with Russia, especially through oil purchases. His remarks come even as India intensifies its diplomatic outreach to help end the war in Ukraine.
Zelensky: “Tariffs Are the Right Idea”
In an interview, Zelensky said:
“I think the idea to put tariffs on the country… continuing to make deals with Russia is the right idea.”
The Ukrainian president was responding to a question about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, where he was seen alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
US Hints at More Sanctions, Targets India
The comments come as the Trump administration signals plans to expand sanctions on Russia. US National Economic Council director Kevin Hassett pointed directly at India’s oil trade with Moscow.
“People who are helping Russia with their war against Ukraine… for example, what India has been doing by buying Russian oil… we’re ready to respond to them economically,” ‘Hassett’ said after Russia’s latest strikes on Ukraine
He added that discussions were underway regarding the scale and timing of further sanctions.
India Steps Up Peace Push
Despite this rhetoric, India has been actively engaged in efforts to mediate peace. Prime Minister Modi spoke to Zelensky twice last month, reiterating India’s call for an early and peaceful resolution.
“India remains committed to making every possible contribution in this regard, as well as to further strengthening bilateral ties with Ukraine,” Modi said on X.
High-Level Engagements with Europe
India’s diplomatic push has also extended to Europe. In recent days, PM Modi held discussions with:
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Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission
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Antonio Costa, President of the European Council
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Emmanuel Macron, President of France
These conversations focused on the Ukraine conflict and broader regional stability.
Jaishankar Reaffirms India’s Neutral Stance
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also spoke with Ukrainian First Deputy Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. He emphasized India’s support for:
“An early end to the conflict and the establishment of an enduring peace.”
India’s Tightrope Walk
India has consistently maintained a neutral position in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, calling for diplomacy and dialogue while continuing to purchase discounted Russian oil, citing energy security and national interest.
The country has avoided direct criticism of Russia at international forums but has also expanded humanitarian support to Ukraine and advocated peace in bilateral talks.
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