Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed to Russian President Vladimir Putin that peace is "of paramount importance" and that a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine cannot be achieved through military means. Putin, speaking ahead of Modi during a televised meeting at the Kremlin, described the two nations as having a "special strategic partnership" and commended Modi for his endeavors to seek a peaceful resolution to the crisis. "I appreciate the focus you are placing on addressing the most pressing issues, including efforts to resolve the Ukrainian crisis - primarily through peaceful means," Putin remarked. India has emerged as a crucial partner for Russia amid sanctions, with Russia redirecting its trade away from Western nations and showcasing that efforts to isolate it have not succeeded. New Delhi has refrained from condemning Russia over the conflict, while advocating for dialogue and diplomacy between Ukraine and Russia to resolve the dispute. Emphasizing the significance of peace for the future, Modi expressed in Hindi his anguish over the loss of innocent lives, particularly children, due to recent attacks in Ukraine, including the tragic assault on a children's hospital in Kyiv. Following the attack in Ukraine, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy criticized Modi for his visit to Russia, denouncing it as detrimental to peace efforts. In his message on social media, Zelenskyy stated, "It is disappointing to witness the leader of the world's largest democracy embrace a notorious criminal in Moscow under such circumstances." Modi, on his first official trip to Russia since 2019, aims to reinforce energy and defense cooperation with Russia, a crucial supplier of military equipment and oil to India. Despite seeking stronger ties with Russia, Modi must navigate cautiously to not alienate Western allies who are skeptical of the alliance. Modi praised Putin's leadership and characterized the relationship between India and Moscow as one based on mutual trust and respect, highlighting the positive impact of Russian manufacturing and energy on India's economy. In a move towards increased collaboration, Russian state nuclear energy firm Rosatom revealed discussions about potentially constructing six additional nuclear power units in India. Reportedly, Indian and Russian officials will explore a long-term agreement on discounted oil supplies to India, in addition to discussing broader trade expansion and a maritime corridor linking Chennai and Vladivostok. Trade between India and Russia has surged, nearing $65 billion in the 2023-24 fiscal year, supported by robust energy cooperation, according to Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra.