EU Commission chief after call with Modi: India plays key role in ending war in Ukraine
Photo: Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission (Getty Images)
India is helping to pave the way for an end to Russia’s war against Ukraine. Delhi plays an important role in this process, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Von der Leyen said she had a conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
"We warmly welcome India’s continued engagement with President Zelenskyy. India has an important role to play in bringing Russia to end its war of aggression and helping create a path towards peace," European Commission President said.
She also added that Russia’s war against Ukraine has global security consequences and undermines economic stability. Accordingly, it poses a threat to the entire world.
According to von der Leyen, the EU and India plan to coordinate a joint strategic agenda at the next EU-India summit, which could take place as early as 2026.
The European Commission chief noted that she is fully committed to concluding negotiations on a free trade agreement by the end of this year, emphasizing that progress is needed now.
India continues to buy Russian oil
In August, US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on India, as it remains one of the largest buyers of Russian oil. The funds from these purchases are later used by Moscow to continue the war against Ukraine.
Despite these US measures, India hasn't stopped importing Russian oil.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also urged India to stop buying Russian oil during his conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
