NSA Ajit Doval set to visit Moscow for key Russia-Ukraine peace talks: Sources
PTC News Desk: National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval is set to visit Moscow this week to engage in discussions aimed at finding a resolution to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to sources. This diplomatic move follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent efforts, including a visit to Ukraine where he met President Volodymyr Zelensky, and a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
On August 27, shortly after his Ukraine visit, Prime Minister Modi spoke to President Putin. During their conversation, Modi briefed Putin on his talks in Kyiv and reaffirmed India's commitment to resolving the Ukraine crisis through political and diplomatic means.
A statement from the Russian Embassy revealed that it was during this phone call that both leaders agreed to dispatch NSA Doval to Moscow for further dialogue. Although the exact details of Doval’s visit are still under wraps, it is seen as a significant step in India's ongoing diplomatic efforts to mediate the conflict.
The Russian statement highlighted that Putin shared his views on what he described as the "destructive policies" of the Ukrainian authorities and their Western backers. He also outlined Russia’s approach to resolving the situation. The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) confirmed that the leaders discussed the situation in detail, with Modi emphasizing the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and sincere engagement among all parties involved to achieve a lasting and peaceful solution.
Reiterating India's role as a peacemaker, the Prime Minister took to X (formerly Twitter) to affirm India's commitment to supporting an "early, abiding, and peaceful resolution" to the conflict. Modi also stated that India has never been neutral, always siding with peace, during his discussions with Ukrainian President Zelensky in their recent meeting.
Russia has acknowledged India as one of the key nations with which it maintains communication over the Ukraine conflict, alongside China and Brazil. President Putin noted that these countries are actively seeking ways to resolve the crisis.
World leaders have echoed this sentiment, with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni recently stating that India and China could play vital roles in finding a peaceful solution to the conflict. However, she cautioned against allowing Ukraine to be left vulnerable or abandoned in the process.
Doval's upcoming trip to Moscow will be closely watched as it reflects India's growing diplomatic influence and commitment to fostering peace in one of the most significant geopolitical conflicts in recent times.