Modi presses Putin for peace

Modi’s diplomatic juggling act was on full display this week: he pressed Vladimir Putin for peace in Ukraine at the SCO summit, but kept India’s crucial oil and student ties with Russia warm—showing Delhi’s trademark balancing act. His message? India stands for ending endless wars, which reassures European partners that Delhi won’t play spoiler even as it hosts Putin at September’s BRICS summit. The stakes are high: does the Delhi meeting cement this peace-first line, or will Moscow’s influence sway the narrative?

But here’s the catch: while India deepens its Moscow connection, it’s also doubling down with Europe. Italy’s Prime Minister Meloni gave a public thumbs-up, highlighting the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor that could shield businesses from Red Sea shipping woes. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan rolled out the red carpet, awarding Modi its highest honor and signing on to boosted trade and overland connectivity—a boon for anyone in logistics or minerals.

Back home, Modi spotlighted his push for a drug-free youth and women street vendors, but poll numbers show his lead slipping to 48.7% from 55% in January, fueling talk of a cabinet reshuffle. The real play? If the BRICS summit and domestic reset both deliver, India could strengthen its global hand. Featuring reporting from India Today, The Hindu, The Times of India, and The Indian Express.

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