PM Modi To Visit Ukraine On 23 August As Zelensky's Forces Push Deeper Into Russian Territory In Kursk

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Ukraine on 23 August.

This visit follows Modi's recent trip to Moscow, where he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had criticised that meeting as a “huge disappointment and a devastating blow to peace efforts,” describing Modi’s engagement with Putin as an embrace of “the bloodiest criminal in the world.”

The timing of Modi’s visit is notable, coinciding with a significant escalation in the conflict. Ukrainian forces are advancing into Russian territory in what is being hailed as the most substantial invasion of Russia since the Second World War.

The offensive has seen Ukrainian troops making gradual gains in Russia's Kursk region following a surprise military operation launched nearly two weeks ago.

Meanwhile, Russia is grappling with defensive challenges in its occupied eastern regions, where Russian forces are advancing towards a critical military hub.

The Kursk offensive has placed considerable strain on Russian defences, with Kyiv aiming to boost morale and stretch Russia’s resources.

Ukrainian officials have indicated that the operation is designed to create a more favourable negotiation position.

In a statement on Sunday (18 August), Zelensky outlined the strategic goals of the operation: “It is now our primary task in defensive operations overall: to destroy as much Russian war potential as possible and conduct maximum counteroffensive actions.”