Kyiv, Ukraine — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy spoke with the leaders of India and Saudi Arabia on Monday in a bid to rally support beyond Europe, just days before a planned meeting between former U.S. president Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Zelenskiy’s outreach follows a weekend of diplomatic backing from European and NATO leaders, amid fears in Kyiv that Washington and Moscow could attempt to dictate terms for ending the 3½-year war.
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In separate statements, Zelenskiy said he had discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman — both of whom have taken cautious stances on Russia’s invasion. India remains a major buyer of Russian oil, while Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a potential mediator in the conflict.
“Communication with leaders is ongoing practically around the clock – we are in constant touch,” Zelenskiy wrote on X. “Now is the moment when there is a real chance to achieve peace.”
During what he called a “long conversation” with Modi, Zelenskiy also raised the issue of sanctions on Russian oil. Trump last week announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, citing New Delhi’s continued imports of Russian crude. “It is necessary to limit the export of Russian energy, particularly oil, to reduce its potential and ability to finance the continuation of this war,” Zelenskiy said, urging leaders with “tangible leverage over Russia” to act.
Putin, meanwhile, has been conducting his own diplomatic push, speaking in recent days with the leaders of China, India, Brazil, and three former Soviet states to brief them on his contacts with the United States regarding Ukraine.
On Wednesday, Germany will host a virtual meeting of European leaders to discuss ways to pressure Russia ahead of a planned European call with Trump. Zelenskiy, along with EU and NATO officials, is expected to participate.
Earlier Monday, the Ukrainian leader warned that making concessions to Moscow would not bring peace. “Russia refuses to stop the killings, and therefore must not receive any rewards or benefits,” he posted on X. “Concessions do not persuade a killer.”
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