New Delhi, August 20-- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Kiev, Ukraine, this Friday, marking his first official trip to the country. The visit, extended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, underscores a significant diplomatic gesture amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Modi's trip follows a recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, which drew criticism from Ukraine due to a photo of Modi embracing Putin. India has maintained a close relationship with Russia, a key arms supplier and source of discounted crude oil, and has not formally condemned Russia's actions in Ukraine. Instead, India has consistently called for a resolution through negotiations.

In addition to Kiev, Modi will also visit Poland. The timing of the visit coincides with recent Ukrainian advances into Russian territory, particularly in Kursk.