‘India ready to mediate Russia-Ukraine war if needed’:Jaishankar flags Black Sea sailors’ safety, says diplomacy is the way out

India is ready to help bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine war, Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said. He also offered to mediate if necessary. Jaishankar made the remarks while speaking to reporters during his visit to Kyiv on Thursday. He was accompanied by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. Photos of Jaishankar’s Ukraine visit… Ukraine FM calls Jaishankar’s visit important amid Russian attacks Ukraine’s Foreign Minister welcomed External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on his arrival in Kyiv, describing it as the Indian foreign minister’s first dedicated bilateral visit to Ukraine. He said Russia continues to attack Ukrainian cities, ports and civilian vessels, making Jaishankar’s visit particularly important. The two ministers discussed restoring normal shipping in the Black Sea and protecting global food security. Ukraine’s foreign minister also welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on diplomacy and dialogue to end the war. The meeting also focused on expanding India-Ukraine cooperation in infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, technology and digital sectors. Both countries agreed to hold the next meeting of their Inter-Governmental Commission. India raises need to protect sailors Jaishankar’s visit comes at a time when there have been reports of Indian sailors being killed and injured during the Russia-Ukraine conflict in the Black Sea. Jaishankar stressed the need to ensure the safety of all sailors, including Indians. He also said that the war should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. The Black Sea is one of the world’s major maritime trade routes. A large share of wheat, maize and sunflower oil from Russia and Ukraine reaches other countries through this route. Together, the two countries account for around 30% of global wheat exports. Jaishankar to visit Ukraine and Poland from September 3 to 5 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be on an official visit to Ukraine and Poland from September 3 to 5. After Ukraine, he will travel to Poland, where he will hold bilateral talks with Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the visit aims to strengthen India’s bilateral ties with both countries. Regional developments and issues of mutual interest will also be discussed during the visit.