India’s Diplomatic Balancing Act: Zelenskyy Next After Putin’s Visit

New Delhi is continuing its complex diplomatic maneuvers by planning a potential visit from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the upcoming months, a move that could occur as early as January 2026. This follows swiftly on the heels of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent two-day visit to India, highlighting the nation’s consistent strategy of engaging with both parties involved in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This approach aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s previous diplomatic engagements, including his visits to Moscow and Kyiv in 2024. Sources confirm that Indian and Ukrainian officials have been in discussions for weeks, with outreach to Zelenskyy’s office occurring even before Putin’s arrival. The final arrangements for Zelenskyy’s visit, including its scope and timing, will depend on several factors. These include the progress of international peace initiatives, such as those led by US President Donald Trump, and the evolving situation on the battlefield. Domestic political considerations within Ukraine, including the impact of a recent corruption scandal, may also influence the visit. Ukraine has historically maintained limited direct presidential contact with India, with prior visits in 1992, 2002, and 2012. Putin’s visit had generated diplomatic interest from European nations urging India to leverage its influence towards peace. New Delhi consistently emphasizes dialogue and diplomacy as the path to resolution, with Prime Minister Modi famously stating, ‘India is not neutral, India is on the side of peace.’ Since the conflict’s inception in February 2022, India has maintained dialogue with both Kyiv and Moscow, with Prime Minister Modi engaging in numerous phone calls and meetings with both leaders. The economic impact of the war is also a growing concern for India, as secondary sanctions and tariffs have led to adjustments in its energy imports from Russia. Prime Minister Modi’s messaging during his meeting with Putin reinforced India’s commitment to peace, drawing upon its heritage of non-violence and diplomacy, a message previously conveyed to Zelenskyy. While Putin provided limited specifics, he confirmed discussions on the Ukraine situation and the pursuit of a peaceful settlement. India has reiterated its support for all genuine efforts towards a peaceful and lasting resolution. Notably, official communications surrounding the recent Modi-Putin meeting have referred to the situation as a ‘crisis’ rather than ‘war’, and the joint statement issued after the December 2025 meeting made no mention of the conflict. Following the resignation of a key aide, Indian officials are now coordinating with new contacts in Zelenskyy’s office to secure convenient dates for the potential visit, thereby maintaining India’s carefully calibrated diplomatic stance.