Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants friendly ties with two countries at war. He's held telephone talks with the leader of Russia, followed by another call to the president of Ukraine.

Modi congratulated Vladimir Putin on Wednesday for winning Russia's recent presidential election. The Indian leader said on social media after the result that he hopes the two countries can strengthen their strategic partnership.

Modi also spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, pledging to maintain support for a peaceful end to the conflict.

India has positioned itself as neutral since the start of the invasion, while increasing imports of Russian oil.

Modi has been calling for dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv. And some observers say Wednesday's talks show he's keen to mediate.

Ukraine's foreign minister will reportedly visit India next week.