PM Modi urges peace ahead of Ukraine visit

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Aug 22 said no conflict could be resolved on a battlefield, as he visited Poland on the eve of his historic trip to war-torn Ukraine.

- 

Mr Modi will be the first Indian premier to make a Ukraine trip and is the first in 45 years to visit Poland, Kyiv's loyal ally that is a key transit for foreign leaders heading to its war-torn neighbour.

The Indian government has avoided explicit condemnations of Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, instead urging both sides to resolve their differences through dialogue.

"It is India's strong belief that no problem can be resolved on a battlefield," Mr Modi said in Warsaw, adding that Delhi supports "dialogue and diplomacy for restoration of peace and stability as soon as possible".

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk welcomed Mr Modi and his delegation at the seat of government, with both countries' flags hoisted outside the building and their anthems played by the military band.