Disappointed to See PM of Largest Democracy Hug the World's Most Bloody Criminal: Zelensky on Modi-Putin Meet

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia has sparked significant controversy, especially given the geopolitical climate and ongoing conflict in Ukraine. 

Summarized Insights:

• Modi emphasizes India-Russia bond.

• Visit coincides with NATO summit.

• Ukraine criticizes Modi's hug with Putin.

• Talks focus on economic, strategic ties.

Modi, on his first visit to Russia in five years, addressed the Indian diaspora in Moscow, emphasizing the deep-rooted relationship between India and Russia. 

He highlighted the "mutual trust and mutual respect" that forms the foundation of this bond and expressed his admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin's leadership.

Modi's visit coincided with a NATO summit in Washington, where the Ukraine war was a dominant topic of discussion. 

Despite the apparent significance of the timing, a senior Indian foreign ministry official clarified that Modi's visit was part of a long-standing schedule of summits between India and Russia. 

In his address, Modi stated, "Every Indian considers Russia to be India's friend in good and bad times." 

He underscored the resilience of the Indo-Russian relationship, which has been tested and strengthened over time, and referred to Putin as his "dear friend."

The historical ties between India and Russia are robust, with Russia serving as India's largest weapons provider for decades. 

These relations date back to Soviet times, cementing a strong foundation of cooperation. 

However, the West, particularly the United States, has been keen on strengthening ties with India, viewing it as a strategic counterbalance to China's growing influence in the region. 

Despite this, India and the West hold differing views on Russia's war in Ukraine.

The U.S. State Department recently expressed concerns over India's relationship with Russia. 

India has notably refrained from criticizing Russia's actions in Ukraine and has significantly increased its imports of Russian oil, benefiting from lower prices. 

At the same time, India has consistently called for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

In a gesture that underlined the warmth of their relationship, Putin welcomed Modi to Russia, addressing him as his "dear friend" and expressing happiness at his visit. 

This cordial exchange, however, occurred against the backdrop of a tragic incident in Kyiv. 

A Russian missile strike on a hospital in the Ukrainian capital resulted in the death of at least 41 people, casting a shadow over the Modi-Putin meeting.

The image of Modi embracing Putin, shared on social media platform X, drew a sharp reaction from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. 

Zelensky described the image as a "huge disappointment" and a "devastating blow to peace efforts," criticizing Modi for hugging "the world's most bloody criminal" on such a grim day. 

This reaction highlights the deep-seated tensions and differing perspectives on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Modi and Putin are set to hold official talks in the Kremlin, focusing on economic and strategic ties, including discussions on cheaper energy supplies. 

The meeting underscores India's continued engagement with Russia, even as global dynamics shift and the war in Ukraine continues to draw international condemnation.

India's balancing act in maintaining its historical ties with Russia while navigating its relationships with Western nations remains a complex and delicate endeavor. 

Modi's visit to Russia and his interactions with Putin are reflective of India's strategic interests and the challenges it faces on the global stage. 

The reactions to this visit, especially from Ukraine, underscore the intricate web of international relations and the impact of global conflicts on diplomatic engagements.