Modi speaks to Putin, urges him to resolve differences with NATO through ‘honest dialogue’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, following Russia's attack on Ukraine, and asked the president to resolve the issue through "honest and sincere dialogue."

A communique from the PMO stated that Putin briefed Modi about the recent developments regarding Ukraine. PM reiterated his long-standing conviction that the differences between Russia and NATO can only be resolved through honest and sincere dialogue, the PMO said.

Modi also raised India's concerns regarding the safety of the Indian citizens in Ukraine, especially students, and conveyed that India attaches the highest priority to their safe exit and return to India.

The duo agreed that their officials and diplomatic teams would continue to maintain regular contacts on issues of topical interest.

Russia launched a serious offence on Ukraine on Thursday, hitting cities and bases with airstrikes or shelling, as civilians piled into trains and cars to flee. Putin deflected global condemnation and cascading new sanctions — and referred to his country's nuclear arsenal as he threatened any foreign country attempting to interfere with “consequences you have never seen”.

Earlier in the day, Ukrainian Ambassador to India Igor Polikha expressed dissatisfaction over India's response to Russian military offensive, and had sought New Delhi's support in defusing the situation.

Polikha had said India has special relationship with Russia and it can play a more proactive role in de-escalation of the situation.

He had also Modi is among very few leaders whom President  Putin listens to and New Delhi can use its proximity with Moscow to control the situation.