Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sharply criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his visit to Moscow, highlighting a tragic attack on a children’s hospital in Kyiv. On the day Modi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, two people were killed and many others injured in the attack on a children’s cancer hospital. Zelensky alleged that Russia deliberately targeted the hospital, branding Putin as “the world’s bloodiest criminal” and expressing disappointment over Modi’s engagement with him.
Russia’s Response
In response, the Russian Defence Ministry denied targeting the hospital, claiming that the damage was caused by a Ukrainian air-defence missile. Russia dismissed Kyiv’s allegations as ‘hysteria’ and stated that its attacks focused on Ukraine’s military and strategic bases, which were reportedly involved in targeting Russian power infrastructure. Moscow suggested that Kyiv’s accusations were timed to coincide with the NATO Summit in Washington to garner support.
The Ongoing Conflict
The war between Russia and Ukraine has raged for 29 months, with Russia controlling a significant portion of Ukraine, including the Donbass region. Despite numerous attempts to end the conflict, a resolution remains elusive. Ukraine reported that 37 people were killed and 170 injured in Russian attacks on the same day as the hospital incident, with many victims buried under the debris.
Modi’s Moscow Visit
Despite the turmoil, Putin warmly received Modi at his private residence. Addressing Modi as ‘Param-dost’, Putin praised Modi’s leadership and welcomed him in a homely atmosphere. Modi expressed gratitude for the reception and thanked Putin for his hospitality. Putin personally drove Modi in an electric cart, and Modi is set to receive Russia’s highest civilian award at the Kremlin.
International Reactions
Modi’s visit to Moscow raised concerns in Washington, where President Joe Biden is hosting NATO leaders and Zelensky for a special summit. The US State Department expressed its concerns about India’s relationship with Russia. However, Indian government sources dismissed these concerns, emphasizing India’s commitment to respecting the UN Charter and advocating for dialogue and diplomacy as the only solution to the conflict.
Russia’s Defence Ministry says:
According to a statement from the Russian Defence Ministry, the attacks were a response to Ukraine’s attempts to damage Russian power infrastructure and economic facilities. The ministry claimed that all targets were military-industrial infrastructure and aviation bases, and denied deliberate strikes on civilian facilities. Moscow accused Kyiv of fabricating allegations to secure continued funding and support from NATO, portraying the situation as part of a long-standing pattern of provocation.