Black Sea security, civilian shipping and global food supplies discussed
Our Correspondent / NEW DELHI
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has thanked India for its commitment to ending the Russia-Ukraine war following his meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in Kyiv, where the two sides discussed the conflict, Black Sea security and the protection of civilian shipping and food supplies.
Zelenskyy said India’s position that the war must end and peace must be achieved was clear. He also said the talks covered threats to civilian shipping in the Black Sea, stressing the importance of preventing disruption to food supplies reaching regions dependent on maritime routes.
The Ukrainian President’s remarks came during Jaishankar’s visit to Kyiv, where the Indian delegation was present as Russia launched another wave of attacks involving jet-powered Shahed drones, according to Zelenskyy.
“Peace is needed. This is India’s clear position,” Zelenskyy said in a statement posted on social media following the meeting.
For India, the discussions are significant as New Delhi continues to advocate dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward for resolving the conflict. India has maintained communication with both Moscow and Kyiv while emphasising the wider global consequences of the war.
Disruptions in the Black Sea can affect food, fertiliser, energy supplies and international shipping costs. New Delhi has repeatedly highlighted the need to protect global food and energy security, particularly for developing countries.
The meeting underscores India’s continuing diplomatic engagement with Ukraine while maintaining its independent foreign-policy position and strategic ties with Russia.