Ukraine Crisis: PM Modi dails to President Putin, appeals for 'immediate cessation of violence'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on telephone today with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

President Putin briefed Prime Minister about the recent developments regarding Ukraine. PM Modi reiterated his long-standing conviction that the differences between Russia and the NATO group can only be resolved through honest and sincere dialogue. PM Modi appealed for an immediate cessation of violence, and called for concerted efforts from all sides to return to the



path of diplomatic negotiations and dialogue.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also sensitised the Russian President about India's concerns regarding the safety of the Indian citizens in Ukraine, especially students, and conveyed that India attaches the highest priority to their safe exit and return to India.

The leaders agreed that their officials and diplomatic teams would continue to maintain regular contacts on issues of topical interest.