Russian President Vladimir Putin called Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday to update him about the recent Alaska Summit with former US President Donald Trump.

Key Agenda: Ukraine War

Putin traveled to Alaska last Friday to hold direct talks with Trump. The Ukraine conflict dominated the discussions. The summit came at a crucial moment as the war, which began in February 2022 after Russia’s full-scale invasion, has entered its third year. Both leaders reportedly focused on ways to bring hostilities to an end, though no clear breakthrough was announced.

Modi’s Reaction

After speaking with Putin, Modi posted on X to express gratitude. He wrote, “Thanked President Putin for sharing insights on his recent meeting with President Trump in Alaska. India has consistently called for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict and supports all efforts in this regard. I look forward to our continued exchanges in the days to come.”

Thank my friend, President Putin, for his phone call and for sharing insights on his recent meeting with President Trump in Alaska. India has consistently called for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict and supports all efforts in this regard. I look forward to our…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 18, 2025

India’s Position on the Conflict

India has maintained a careful diplomatic balance since the war began. It has not joined Western sanctions against Russia but has repeatedly urged dialogue. Modi has told Putin directly that “this is not an era of war.”

India has also played a behind-the-scenes role in talks. In 2023, reports suggested that New Delhi quietly engaged with both Kyiv and Moscow as part of international peace initiatives. At the same time, India has continued to buy discounted Russian oil, making it one of Moscow’s key energy partners during the sanctions era.

Trump’s Mediation Approach

Trump has taken a leading role in efforts to mediate between Moscow and Kyiv. In his latest proposals, he suggested that Ukraine should cede some territory to Russia in exchange for peace. However, Ukraine’s leadership has rejected any deal that does not include strong security guarantees. Ukrainian officials insist that sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable.

What remains unclear is Trump’s exact position on providing Ukraine with long-term security assurances, something Kyiv considers essential before agreeing to any peace deal.

Upcoming High-Level Talks

After the Alaska meeting with Putin, Trump is set to continue his diplomacy in Washington. On Monday, he will meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House.

Trump will also hold a joint session with several European leaders, including:

• British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer

• French President Emmanuel Macron

• Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni

• Finnish President Alexander Stubb

• German Chancellor Friedrich Merz

• European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen

• NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte

These talks aim to coordinate Western and allied responses and explore whether a negotiated settlement with Russia is possible.

Broader Implications

The Alaska Summit and subsequent meetings highlight the growing push for diplomacy as the war drags on with heavy losses on both sides. While Russia seeks recognition of territorial gains, Ukraine continues to demand complete sovereignty. India’s involvement underscores its emerging role as a global mediator, balancing strategic ties with both Moscow and Washington.