‘If India can be of any help’: EAM Jaishankar offers support to end Ukraine war

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Thursday said India is willing to assist in efforts to bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine war, including through mediation if required.

Speaking to reporters during his visit to Kyiv, Jaishankar said New Delhi was prepared to contribute in whatever way it could. He made the remarks alongside Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, according to news agency Reuters.

"If India can be of any help, in any manner, we are there," Jaishankar said.

Black Sea shipping also discussed

The two ministers also discussed attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea, amid continuing concerns over the impact of the conflict on maritime traffic and seafarers.

The issue has particular significance for India following the latest escalation in the Black Sea, in which Indian seafarers were killed and injured.

New Delhi has repeatedly stressed the safety of Indian citizens and other seafarers caught up in the conflict and has called for the war to end through dialogue and diplomacy.

Jaishankar in Ukraine for bilateral talks

Jaishankar is currently visiting Ukraine, where he is scheduled to hold bilateral consultations with Sybiha. He will also meet Polish Deputy Prime Minister Radoslaw Sikorski during the visit.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the visit is aimed at strengthening India's bilateral ties while providing an opportunity to discuss regional developments and issues of mutual interest.

"The visit will focus on enhancing bilateral relations and also provide an opportunity to exchange views on regional developments and issues of mutual interest," said the official statement.

India reiterates call for diplomacy

Jaishankar's remarks in Kyiv come as India continues to maintain that the Russia-Ukraine conflict should be resolved through dialogue and diplomatic engagement.

While New Delhi has maintained ties with both Moscow and Kyiv, it has also consistently emphasised the need for a peaceful resolution to the war. The latest discussions in Kyiv also brought the safety of commercial shipping and seafarers into focus, particularly following recent incidents in the Black Sea.