PM Modi opts for 20-hour train over flight to Ukraine.
During his visit to Ukraine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The meeting is highly anticipated, with expectations that significant defense deals will be signed between the two countries. These agreements are likely to focus on enhancing India’s defense capabilities, particularly in areas such as military aviation, naval propulsion systems, and joint ventures in defense manufacturing. Strengthening defense ties with Ukraine could provide India with advanced technologies and strategic advantages, while also offering Ukraine much-needed financial and industrial support in the wake of ongoing challenges due to the conflict with Russia.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ukraine on August 23 marks a significant moment in India’s diplomatic engagements. Following his visit to Poland, PM Modi will travel to Ukraine by a special train known as Train Force One, rather than taking a flight. This 20-hour overnight journey is necessitated by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which has resulted in the closure of all airports in Ukraine, making train travel the safest option.
Train Force One, often dubbed as a luxurious train, is renowned for its top-tier facilities and world-class service. Originally built in 2014 to cater to tourists in Crimea, the train has since been repurposed for high-profile diplomatic missions. It features a modern interior that resembles a high-end hotel on wheels, with amenities designed for comfort and security. The train includes a large table for important meetings, plush sofas, a wall-mounted TV, and dedicated spaces for sleeping and resting. Its advanced security measures, including armored windows, secure communication systems, and a team of security personnel, ensure the safety of its VIP passengers. These features make Train Force One an ideal choice for travel in a conflict zone.
PM Modi’s decision to travel by this train aligns with the choices of other international leaders who have visited Ukraine during the ongoing war. Notably, U.S. President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi have all used Train Force One for their journeys to Ukraine. The train has become a symbol of safe passage and a strategic mode of transport for global leaders navigating the complexities of the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
Modi’s visit to Kyiv is highly anticipated, as it comes at a critical juncture in the ongoing war. The Indian Prime Minister is expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, where they will discuss various aspects of bilateral relations, with a particular focus on defense cooperation. Given the current geopolitical landscape, it is likely that important defense deals will be signed during Modi’s visit, enhancing India’s military capabilities and strengthening its strategic partnership with Ukraine.
India’s interest in defense collaboration with Ukraine is not new. The two countries have a history of cooperation in military technology and defense manufacturing. However, the ongoing war has disrupted many of these activities, particularly affecting the supply chain of military equipment that India relies on. For instance, the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) fleet of An-32 military transports, which were due for an upgrade under a 2009 contract with Ukraine, has been impacted by the war. The Antonov plant in Kyiv, responsible for upgrading these aircraft, has faced significant challenges due to the conflict, leading to delays and disruptions in the supply of spare parts.
Additionally, the Zorya-Mashproekt complex in Mykolaiv, crucial for producing turbines used by the Indian Navy, has also been targeted by Russian forces, further complicating defense cooperation. Given these disruptions, Modi’s visit presents an opportunity to explore alternative avenues for collaboration, potentially including the establishment of joint ventures in India. Such partnerships could involve Ukrainian technicians working alongside their Indian counterparts to set up manufacturing units, ensuring the continuity of critical defense projects.
Moreover, PM Modi’s visit to Kyiv comes at a time when India is navigating a delicate balance in its foreign policy. The Indian government has maintained a neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy. This approach has allowed India to engage with both Russia and Ukraine independently, focusing on its strategic interests without aligning too closely with either side. However, this neutrality has also drawn criticism from some Western allies, particularly following Modi’s recent visit to Moscow. His visit to Ukraine, therefore, carries significant diplomatic weight, as it reflects India’s commitment to engaging with all parties involved in the conflict.
During his meeting with President Zelenskyy, PM Modi is expected to share his perspectives on the peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict. India has consistently advocated for dialogue and a peaceful settlement, emphasizing the need for a diplomatic solution that respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. Modi’s discussions with Zelenskyy will likely include an exchange of views on how to de-escalate the conflict and explore potential pathways to peace.
The timing of Modi’s visit is also symbolic, coinciding with Ukraine’s National Flag Day on August 23. This gesture underscores the importance of the visit and highlights India’s support for Ukraine during a challenging period. The visit also serves as a platform for India to reaffirm its commitment to upholding international norms and contributing to global peace and stability.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Ukraine, undertaken via the luxurious and secure Train Force One, is more than a routine diplomatic engagement. It is a carefully orchestrated move that reflects India’s strategic interests, its commitment to peace, and its willingness to engage with key global players amid a complex geopolitical environment. By strengthening defense ties and exploring new avenues of cooperation with Ukraine, India can bolster its defense capabilities while supporting Ukraine in its time of need. This visit marks a significant chapter in India’s foreign policy and underscores its role as a key player in global diplomacy.