Last Updated on February 14, 2025 by Misha Bhatia
In White House Talks, Modi Praises Trump’s Peace Efforts, Reaffirms India’s Stance on Diplomacy Over Conflict
February 14, 2025: PM Modi to Trump: “India Sides With Peace, Not Neutral on Russia-Ukraine War”
Washington, D.C.:
In a strong and unequivocal statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that India is not neutral in the Russia-Ukraine conflict but firmly stands for peace. Speaking at a high-profile bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House, Modi reiterated his past message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing that “this is not the era of war.”
Also Read: Trump Hails “Wonderful Trade Deals” As He Meets “Great Leader” PM Modi At White House
“India is not neutral. India is siding with peace. I have already conveyed to President Putin that war is not the answer. I support the peace efforts initiated by President Trump,” Modi stated during the joint press conference.
His remarks came just a day after Trump held separate phone conversations with both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, a move that shocked European allies who insist that Ukraine must be at the negotiating table.
Also Read: Trump Approves Extradition of 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attack Accused Tahawwur Rana to India
Trump Claims Putin “Wants Peace”; Modi Backs Diplomacy
During his discussions with Modi, Trump reaffirmed that Ukraine would be “part of” peace negotiations, adding that he was convinced that Putin “wants peace.”
Since the war began in February 2022, PM Modi has consistently advocated diplomacy and dialogue, maintaining active communication with both Russia and Ukraine. Over the past two years, he has engaged in multiple calls and meetings with Putin and Zelensky, urging both nations to seek a peaceful resolution.
India’s stance has been watched closely by the international community, with Western allies at times expressing frustration over New Delhi’s reluctance to directly condemn Moscow. However, Modi’s reassertion of India’s role as a global peace advocate reflects the nation’s long-standing commitment to diplomatic solutions over military conflict.
Also Read: Trump Welcomes PM Modi With A Hug, Says “We Missed You A Lot”
Trade & Tariffs: India Seeks to Ease Tensions With US
Beyond geopolitics, the Modi-Trump talks also focused on trade and economic ties, particularly in light of Trump’s fresh announcement of reciprocal tariffs on all nations, including India.
While Trump has repeatedly criticized India’s tariff policies, calling the country “one of the highest tariff imposers”, Modi is expected to negotiate favorable trade terms to avoid further economic strain.
The Indian PM, who has actively pursued US investments in technology, energy, and defense, emphasized that the bilateral relationship must expand in ways that benefit both nations.
Elon Musk Joins Modi-Trump Talks Amid Rising US-India Ties
Also present at the White House meeting was billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, a close Trump ally and a key figure in US business and technology policy.
Musk’s participation raised speculation over deeper India-US collaborations in AI, space technology, and defense industries, especially amid ongoing discussions about Tesla’s potential entry into the Indian market and SpaceX’s Starlink expansion in India.
While specifics of Musk’s discussion with Modi were not disclosed, PM Modi later shared images of their meeting, reinforcing his commitment to fostering high-tech partnerships between the two nations.
Modi Among First Leaders to Visit Trump Since Re-Election
PM Modi’s visit marks a significant diplomatic milestone, as he is among the first global leaders to meet Trump since his return to the White House. Before him, Trump has hosted the leaders of Israel, Japan, and Jordan, signaling India’s high priority in US foreign relations.
The talks between Trump and Modi set the stage for deeper cooperation in global security, trade, and technology, as both leaders navigate a complex international landscape dominated by tariff wars, geopolitical conflicts, and economic realignments.
With India playing an increasingly central role in global diplomacy, PM Modi’s clear message on peace and his commitment to trade negotiations could shape the future of India-US ties in the years to come.
Tags: IndiaUSRelations, ModiTrumpMeet, RussiaUkraineWar, PeaceDiplomacy, Geopolitics, GlobalLeadership,
