India Reaffirms Peace Push as Zelensky Seeks Support Amid U.S. Tariff Pressure

On August 11, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a crucial phone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging greater global involvement in ending the war in Ukraine. The outreach came just weeks before the planned U.S.–Russia summit in Alaska and against the backdrop of heightened trade tensions between India and the United States.

Washington, under President Donald Trump, recently imposed an additional 25 percent tariff on Indian goods connected to its imports of Russian oil—bringing the total duty to 50 percent. The move has been framed as a direct attempt to pressure India over its continued energy purchases from Moscow, which the U.S. argues help fund Russia’s military operations.

Zelensky's call with Modi comes as India faces a 50 percent tariff from the US for its purchase of Russian oil(AFP) | Hindustan Times

Zelensky’s Call for Stronger Indian Involvement

During the call, President Zelensky was forthright in asserting that Ukraine must be at the table in any negotiations impacting its sovereignty. “Everything concerning Ukraine must be decided with Ukraine’s participation. Other formats will not deliver results,” he said. He also pressed India to take steps to curb Russian energy imports, contending that such measures are essential to limit the Kremlin’s ability to finance its war.

Zelensky’s plea was underscored by renewed warnings of intensified Russian military activity. Citing intelligence reports, he noted the movement of Russian forces near Zaporizhzhia, dismissing any hope for an imminent ceasefire. His outreach to India was part of a broader diplomatic push that also included conversations with Saudi Arabia and other key players ahead of the Trump–Putin meeting.

Modi’s Steadfast Commitment to Peace

Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s consistent position on the conflict—calling for an early, peaceful resolution through diplomacy. He reiterated India’s readiness to play a constructive role in facilitating dialogue and welcomed any global effort, including the upcoming U.S.–Russia summit, that could help de-escalate tensions.

At the same time, Modiji emphasized that India’s foreign policy decisions must prioritize the needs of its citizens, particularly farmers, fishermen, and dairy producers. This balancing act between economic security and geopolitical responsibilities has been a hallmark of India’s stance since the war began in 2022.

The Broader Geopolitical Landscape

India’s position in the Russia–Ukraine conflict reflects a careful blend of strategic autonomy, historic ties, and economic necessity. Since the start of the war, New Delhi has significantly increased its oil imports from Russia, securing discounted supplies that help stabilize domestic energy prices. While this approach has drawn criticism from Western capitals, Indian officials maintain that it is vital for national development and social stability.

President Trump’s tariff strategy adds a fresh layer of complexity. By leveraging trade penalties, Washington aims to influence India’s energy policy and indirectly pressure Moscow. However, many analysts argue that such measures may not alter Russia’s core objectives and could instead strain U.S.–India relations at a time when Washington seeks closer strategic alignment with New Delhi in the Indo-Pacific.

Looking Ahead

Both Modiji and Zelensky signaled their intention to meet in person in September, potentially during the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Such a meeting would provide an opportunity to deepen cooperation, reaffirm India’s diplomatic role, and address the widening gap between Western expectations and India’s strategic priorities.

Conclusion

The Modi–Zelensky call highlights India’s delicate position in the ongoing Ukraine conflict—balancing its commitment to peace with its economic imperatives and long-standing diplomatic traditions. As global pressure mounts through U.S. tariffs and Ukraine’s appeals for stronger action, New Delhi will continue walking a tightrope between strategic autonomy and international expectations. The coming weeks, particularly the outcome of the Trump–Putin summit, may determine whether India’s calibrated approach yields diplomatic dividends or invites further geopolitical friction.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, Moneycontrol, Times of India)