Zelensky Urges Peace as Modi Strengthens Ties with Putin at SCO Summit
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed approval of U.S. tariffs on India following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm interactions with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China, on September 1, 2025. In a statement, Zelensky described the 50% U.S. tariffs, imposed due to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, as a “correct approach” to curbing Russia’s ability to fund its war in Ukraine. The tariffs, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, include a 25% levy specifically targeting India’s oil imports from Russia, which Trump claims fuel Moscow’s military actions.
Zelensky, speaking after a phone call with Modi on August 30, 2025, emphasized the need for India to back peace efforts in Ukraine. He stressed that any resolution must involve Ukraine directly, dismissing alternative formats as ineffective. Modi, in response, reiterated India’s consistent stance on seeking an early, peaceful resolution to the conflict, as reported by Hindustan Times. The call occurred just before Modi’s meetings with Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the SCO Summit, where their camaraderie marked by hugs, handshakes, and a shared car ride drew global attention.
The SCO Summit, attended by leaders including Pakistan’s Shehbaz Sharif and Iran’s Masoud Pezeshkian, highlighted India’s balancing act amid strained U.S. relations. Trump’s tariffs, which doubled to 50% on Indian goods, reflect tensions over India’s refusal to halt Russian oil imports, which constitute over 30% of its crude supply. Modi defended India’s position, prioritizing national interests, particularly those of farmers, despite economic consequences. The summit’s visuals, widely shared on X, underscored a strategic alignment among India, Russia, and China, seen as a counter to U.S. pressure.
Zelensky’s remarks also referenced his discussions with Trump, noting no progress in Russian diplomacy since their talks. He thanked Modi for condolences over civilian losses from Russian strikes, as per Hindustan Times, while urging stronger Indian support for Ukraine’s peace initiatives.
