India Offers Help to End War as Jaishankar Holds Talks in Kyiv

India's External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar met his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha, in Kyiv on Thursday for talks focused on the ongoing conflict and its wider global repercussions.

Speaking at a joint press briefing, Jaishankar reiterated India's longstanding position that disputes should not be settled on the battlefield. He noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently declared in Bishkek that "endless war must now give way to the end of war," adding that every day of fighting brings more death and destruction.

"Understandably, it is for the parties involved to find a way," Jaishankar said. "But if India can be of any help in any manner, we are ready."

The discussions also zeroed in on the deteriorating situation in the Black Sea. Sybiha described the region as having "effectively become a battlefield" due to systematic Russian attacks on civilian vessels, ports, and infrastructure. He expressed condolences for Indian citizens who have been among the victims of these attacks.

Both ministers addressed the broader consequences of restricted shipping routes, particularly for global food security. Sybiha warned that the blocking of vital supply routes for Ukrainian grain threatens millions of people worldwide with hunger and crisis.

Jaishankar acknowledged that attacks on commercial shipping have affected Indian seafarers and merchant vessels of many flags. He noted that the resulting disruptions are causing fuel, fertilizer, and food shortages, impacting many nations in the Global South.

The visit underscores India's efforts to maintain dialogue with both sides in the conflict while emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions.