NEW DELHI: As Russia launched an attacked on Ukraine on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin and appealed for an “immediate cessation of violence”.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office said President Putin briefed PM Modi about the recent developments regarding Ukraine. PM reiterated his long-standing conviction that the differences between Russia and the NATO group can only be resolved through honest and sincere dialogue.
PM Modi also appealed for an immediate cessation of violence, and called for concerted efforts from all sides to return to the path of diplomatic negotiations and dialogue.
He also told Russian President about India’s concerns regarding the safety of the Indian citizens in Ukraine, especially students, and stated that their safe exit and return to India is of utmost importance for him.
Both the leaders agreed that their officials and diplomatic teams would continue to maintain regular contacts on issues of topical interest.
Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said that 4,000 out of 20,000 Indians living in Ukraine have already been evacuated.