zelensky-calls-pm-modi-amid-trump-tariff-threats

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday said that he had a phone call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The call occurred as India faces new high tariffs from the United States, which were imposed in response to India's continued purchases of Russian oil.

In a statement following the call, Zelensky said he called for India's support for a peace initiative to end the war. He stressed the importance of India’s participation in any peace talks, stating, “It is important that India is supporting our peace efforts and shares the position that everything concerning Ukraine must be decided with Ukraine’s participation. Other formats will not deliver results.”

In his own statement on X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Modi confirmed the conversation and clarified India's stance on the conflict. He wrote, "I conveyed India’s consistent position on the need for an early and peaceful resolution of the conflict. India remains committed to making every possible contribution in this regard, as well as to further strengthening bilateral ties with Ukraine."

 

Glad to speak with President Zelenskyy and hear his perspectives on recent developments. I conveyed India’s consistent position on the need for an early and peaceful resolution of the conflict. India remains committed to making every possible contribution in this regard, as well…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 11, 2025

Zelensky's statement also called for additional sanctions against Russia as the war enters its fourth year. Specifically, he urged for a limitation on Russian energy exports. "I noted that it is necessary to limit the export of Russian energy, particularly oil, to reduce its potential and ability to finance the continuation of this war," he stated.

This call for sanctions comes at a time when India is facing a total of 50 per cent tariffs from the United States. US President Donald Trump recently imposed an additional 25 per cent tariff on India, citing its purchases of Russian oil and accusing it of "fuelling the war machine." This new tariff is on top of an existing 25 per cent tariff, bringing the total to 50 per cent on Indian goods.

 

I had a long conversation with the Prime Minister of India @narendramodi. We discussed in detail all important issues – both of our bilateral cooperation and the overall diplomatic situation. I am grateful to the Prime Minister for his warm words of support for our people.

I… pic.twitter.com/Lx9b3sMAbb

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) August 11, 2025

Responding to these tariffs, Prime Minister Modi asserted that India would not compromise on the interests of its citizens, particularly its farmers. He declared, “For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority. India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen and dairy farmers. I know we will have to pay a heavy price for it, and I am ready for it. India is ready for it."

 

Also Read: Zelensky accuses India-China of aiding Russia’s war in Ukraine