As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged him to send the "right signal" to Moscow, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire. This comes as External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar asserts that India is being unfairly targeted in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war, particularly concerning its energy imports from Russia.

Zelenskyy's call to PM Modi highlights Ukraine's desire for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. During a phone conversation with PM Modi, Zelenskyy expressed his hope that Modi would convey a strong message to Putin, advocating for a ceasefire. He stressed that a ceasefire would signal Russia's readiness for diplomacy. Zelenskyy also informed Modi about the recent Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities, emphasizing the need for the international community to pressure Russia to end the war. He acknowledged India's support for peace efforts but also suggested limiting Russian energy exports to reduce Russia's ability to finance the war. Zelenskyy reiterated that any decisions regarding Ukraine must be made with Ukraine's participation.

PM Modi, in his response, conveyed India's consistent position on the need for an early and peaceful resolution of the conflict. He also reiterated India's commitment to extend all possible support in this regard.

Meanwhile, EAM Jaishankar has pushed back against criticism of India's stance on the Ukraine conflict and its trade relations with Russia. He asserted that India should not be unfairly targeted in this context, emphasizing that India has always advocated dialogue and diplomacy. Jaishankar's remarks are seen as a response to allegations that India is helping Russia's "war machine" by purchasing Russian crude oil at a discounted price. He argued that India's procurement of Russian energy is in its national and global interest and that India will continue to make independent decisions on the matter. Jaishankar also pointed out the irony of a "pro-business American administration" criticizing India for conducting business, noting that Europe and America also buy from India.

Jaishankar's comments also follow the imposition of tariffs on Indian goods by the former US President Donald Trump, which India has described as "unjustified and unreasonable". These tariffs include additional duties linked to India's continued purchase of Russian oil.

The situation is further complicated by the upcoming SCO summit, where PM Modi is expected to meet with both President Putin and President Xi Jinping. Zelenskyy has urged world leaders to push Putin for a ceasefire at the summit, expressing concern that Russia is only attempting to deceive leaders and avoid sanctions.

The convergence of these events underscores the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the Russia-Ukraine conflict and India's delicate position. While Zelenskyy seeks India's support in urging Russia towards peace, Jaishankar defends India's right to pursue its national interests and calls for an end to what he sees as unfair targeting. PM Modi's discussions with Putin at the SCO summit will be closely watched for any shifts in the dynamics of the conflict and India's role in its potential resolution.