Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday to discuss efforts to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. The conversation came just two days before Modi's planned meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in China.

Modi took to social media to thank Zelenskyy for the call, stating, "We exchanged views on the ongoing conflict, its humanitarian aspect, and efforts to restore peace and stability. India extends full support to all efforts in this direction."

Zelenskyy, in a separate post, shared that he briefed Modi on his recent talks with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, along with other European leaders. He called it a "productive and important conversation" and emphasized a shared vision for achieving real peace. Zelenskyy also reaffirmed Ukraine's willingness to meet with Russia's leadership.

This was the second time Zelenskyy reached out to Modi regarding the war, which began with Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The last conversation between the two leaders occurred on August 11, shortly after Putin spoke with Modi about the situation in Ukraine.

Modi is set to meet Putin on Monday following the SCO Summit in Tianjin. India has previously facilitated communication between Russian and Ukrainian leaders, acting as an intermediary in the ongoing conflict.

Zelenskyy’s call also came amidst criticism from U.S. officials regarding India’s continued purchases of Russian energy. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro had accused India of profiting from these oil purchases, thus indirectly funding Russia’s war in Ukraine.

In a readout from the Indian government, it was revealed that Zelenskyy shared his perspective on recent developments, while Modi reiterated India’s "steadfast and consistent position" on seeking a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Modi also expressed India's commitment to providing all possible support to efforts aimed at restoring peace.

Zelenskyy clarified that his call was intended to align Ukraine's stance with India’s ahead of the SCO Summit. He stressed that an immediate ceasefire must be the starting point for peace, stating, "It is impossible to speak meaningfully about peace while our cities and communities are under constant fire."

Zelenskyy also mentioned that India was ready to make efforts to send the right signals to Russia and other leaders at the SCO Summit. He pointed out that nearly two weeks had passed since his talks with Trump, but Moscow had yet to show any positive diplomatic signs, instead continuing its attacks on civilian targets. He thanked Modi for his condolences to the victims' families.

Additionally, the two leaders discussed strengthening the India-Ukraine partnership and explored ways to expand cooperation in various areas of mutual interest. Zelenskyy mentioned that preparations were underway for exchange visits and the holding of a Joint Intergovernmental Commission meeting. He expressed eagerness to meet Modi soon to further these discussions.