Kyiv, July 9 – As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Monday, devastating Russian attacks across Ukraine left at least 41 people dead, including children. The timing of Modi's visit has drawn severe criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who described it as a "massive disappointment and disaster" for peace efforts.

CNN reported that Modi's meeting with Putin at the Russian president's official residence in Moscow took place while Russian forces were launching attacks on various Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, which is 900 kilometers away. This marked Modi's first visit to Russia since the invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.

In his criticism, Zelensky stated, "I am deeply disappointed to see the leader of the world's largest democracy embracing the world's bloodiest criminal in Moscow on such a day."

During a speech to the Indian diaspora in Moscow on Tuesday, Modi refrained from commenting on the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Instead, he praised the relationship between India and Russia and announced the opening of two new consulates in Yekaterinburg and Kazan to facilitate travel and business.

The ongoing conflict, now in its 865th day, continues to draw international scrutiny, especially as leaders like Modi engage with Putin amid escalating violence.