Tue Aug 26 05:03:29 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

On Ukraine’s Independence Day, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his well wishes and expressed hope for India’s contribution to ending the war with Russia through peaceful dialogue and diplomacy. This came amid ongoing discussions between the two nations, with both leaders exchanging greetings on their respective Independence Days and reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. The article also notes the external pressure on India concerning its relationship with Russia, highlighting the looming deadline for US tariffs related to India’s purchase of Russian crude oil.

**News Article:**

**Zelenskyy Appeals to India for Contribution to Peace in Ukraine as US Tariff Deadline Looms**

**Kyiv, August 26, 2025** – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has publicly thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his Independence Day greetings and called on India to contribute to ending the war with Russia through diplomacy and dialogue. In a social media post earlier today, President Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine appreciates India’s dedication to peace and recognized its potential role in achieving a lasting resolution to the conflict.

“Now, as the entire world strives to end this horrible war with dignity and lasting peace, we count on India’s contribution,” Zelenskyy wrote. He also emphasized that diplomatic efforts strengthen security not only in Europe but globally, including the Indo-Pacific region.

The exchange comes after Prime Minister Modi wished the people of Ukraine a future of peace and progress on their Independence Day, reciprocating President Zelenskyy’s earlier greetings on India’s own Independence Day on August 15th. Both leaders have reiterated their commitment to strengthening ties between India and Ukraine, with Modi recalling his visit to Kyiv last year and looking forward to continued cooperation.

However, these diplomatic overtures occur against the backdrop of external pressure on India. The article noted the looming August 27 deadline for significant “punitive tariffs” imposed by the U.S. related to India’s continued purchase of Russian crude oil. This puts India in a delicate position, balancing its relationship with Ukraine and its ongoing economic engagement with Russia, while simultaneously facing potential economic sanctions from the United States. The situation underscores the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the war in Ukraine and the intricate role India plays on the world stage.

This article was found on The Hindu which covers international relations from the perspective of India.

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