“Today in Politics: PM Modi visits Kyiv for talks with President Zelenskyy amidst the Russia-Ukraine conflict; Congress to discuss candidates for J&K elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kyiv on Friday marks a significant moment in international diplomacy, as he joins a distinguished group of global leaders who have visited the Ukrainian capital since the onset of the Russian invasion. This list includes US President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, all of whom traveled to Kyiv by train to express solidarity with Ukraine. Modi’s visit is particularly noteworthy as it follows his high-profile trip to Moscow nearly six weeks ago, which sparked criticism from the US and its Western allies. The visit to Kyiv represents a delicate balancing act in India’s foreign policy, highlighting its efforts to engage with key players in the conflict while navigating its complex relationships with both Russia and the West.

During his trip, Modi is expected to hold discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, focusing on the current state of the conflict and potential avenues for diplomatic engagement. The visit underscores India’s interest in contributing to global diplomatic efforts and addressing the humanitarian aspects of the crisis. The talks are anticipated to cover a range of issues, including international support for Ukraine, economic impacts, and possible cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

In parallel, the Congress party is convening to deliberate on its candidates for the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir elections. This meeting is a crucial part of the party’s strategy as it aims to consolidate its position in a region that has experienced significant political changes and challenges. The selection of candidates will be pivotal in shaping Congress’s electoral strategy and addressing the unique political dynamics of Jammu and Kashmir. The party’s discussions will likely focus on identifying candidates who can effectively represent local interests, respond to the evolving political landscape, and strengthen the party’s overall position in the region.

The outcomes of these deliberations will have important implications for both national and regional politics. For the Congress party, selecting the right candidates is essential for mounting a strong campaign and gaining traction in a competitive electoral environment. For Prime Minister Modi, the visit to Kyiv represents a strategic opportunity to reaffirm India’s role in global diplomacy and to engage with key international leaders amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.”