Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov’s high profile visit puts India under pressure

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in New Delhi on Friday, where the latter updated him on the Ukraine crisis, along with continuing peace efforts.

The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) stated in a statement that Modi underlined his plea for an immediate end of conflict and expressed India’s willingness to assist in any way with peace endeavours. Despite stresses from the West, India continues to uphold a moderate posture in the war, abstaining from voting on UN resolutions condemning Russia and urging for an end to the terror and a return to negotiation.

The Russian minister’s arrival comes as India is under immense pressure from the US regarding Russian oil supplies, with the US threatening “consequences” for countries that try to get around US sanctions against Moscow.

According to reports, India may be able to acquire larger quantities of cheaper Russian oil, as well as make diplomatic trade agreements. Both parties want a ruble-rupee exchange rate.

India’s take on Ukraine-Russia Crisis

India has not actively opposed Russia’s intrusion of Ukraine and has abstained from voting against resolutions denouncing Russia at the United Nations. However, India abstained last week on a proposal on the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine supported by Russia, which was considered a reflection of the country’s moderate stance on the dispute.

Statement of Russian Foreign Minister

“President (Putin) and Prime Minister (Indian Prime Minister) are in constant interactions, and I will brief the President on my conversations. He also extends his best wishes to Prime Minister Modi, and I would enjoy the possibility to physically convey this message to him “In his inaugural speech at a meeting with Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated.

“The Prime Minister reaffirmed his plea for an immediate end of atrocities and expressed India’s willingness to assist in any way with peace initiatives,” according to the press release. Many interpret the comments to mean India’s intention to participate as a peacemaker among both Russia and Ukraine. According to sources, India has been in contact with other countries and has hosted a number of important international visitors.