"Real chance for peace": Zelenskyy speaks with Indian PM, Saudi crown prince

Zelenskyy said this in a Telegram post.

Talks with Modi

The president of Ukraine informed the Indian prime minister about recent Russian attacks, including yesterday’s strike on a bus station in Zaporizhzhia, which injured dozens.

Zelenskyy stressed that Moscow deliberately targets civilian sites even when there is a chance for a peaceful settlement, showing its intent to continue the occupation and killings.

The president said: "It is important that India supports our peace efforts and shares the position that ‘everything concerning Ukraine must be resolved with the participation of Ukraine.’ Other formats will not bring results."

The parties discussed sanctions against Russia in detail. Zelenskyy said it is necessary to limit the export of Russian energy, especially oil, to weaken its capacity to fund the war: "It is important that now every leader with real leverage over Russia sends the right signals to Moscow."

The leaders agreed to meet in person in September during the UN General Assembly and to work on arranging mutual visits.

Talk with Saudi crown prince

Zelenskyy informed Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud about contacts with partners and diplomatic efforts to end the war. He stressed that communication with world leaders is ongoing virtually around the clock.

"Now is the moment when there is a real chance to achieve peace. But peace must be fair and lasting, and security must be guaranteed. This is important not only for Ukraine but for every European country," Zelenskyy said, adding that he shares the same view of the dangers in any decisions made without Ukraine and Europe.

The president thanked Mohammed bin Salman for supporting this position and for his willingness to work toward peace. The leaders agreed that their teams will coordinate all necessary efforts.

They also discussed joint projects that, in Zelenskyy’s view, will strengthen both nations.

• Russian dictator Vladimir Putin spoke by phone with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 8 to discuss the war in Ukraine and the strategic partnership between their countries.