On August 23, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kyiv, Ukraine, to meet President Volodymyr Zelensky, according to Reuters.

According to the report, this is Modi’s first visit to Ukraine since it gained independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991.

The visit comes amid the ongoing escalation of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Before the visit, Modi stated: “I am eager to use this opportunity to share my views on a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict. As a friend, we hope for the immediate restoration of peace and stability in the region.”

Meanwhile, a Ukrainian presidential advisor, Mykhailo Podolyak, told Reuters that Modi’s visit to Kyiv is important because New Delhi has a “truly unique” influence over Moscow.

He added, “By engaging with such countries, we make it clear what a proper end to the war looks like and that it is still in their interest.”

On August 6, the Ukrainian military launched a major attack on the Kerch region of Russia.