Prime Minister Narendra Modi made two significant trips, first to Russia in July for the 22nd India-Russia Bilateral Summit, and then to Ukraine in August. (File Photo) Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his gratitude to US President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and several other world leaders for their diplomatic efforts surrounding the ongoing Ukraine conflict, even as a America-backed proposal for a 30-day ceasefire struggles to gain traction. In a recent statement, Putin acknowledged the role of international partners in seeking a resolution to the war that has devastated Ukraine for over three years. However, the Russian leader hinted at unresolved issues that could delay any meaningful progress toward a truce. “First of all, I would like to start with words of gratitude to the president of the United States, Mr. Trump, for paying so much attention to the Ukraine settlement,” Putin said in a public address. His remarks signalled a diplomatic nod to President Trump, whose administration has made efforts to broker an end to the conflict. Story continues below this ad Also read | Putin lauds Modi’s ‘India First’ policy, says Russia will invest in India Putin also praised the contributions of other major global players, including India, China, Brazil, and South Africa — the BRICS nations — for their involvement in peace efforts. “They devote a lot of time to this issue, and we are thankful to them because it’s all for the noble cause of stopping hostilities and preventing human casualties,” he added. Ceasefire proposal hits stumbling blocks