During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s brief but significant seven-hour visit to Kyiv, the Special Protection Group (SPG) was on high alert, ensuring every security measure was in place due to heightened tensions in Ukraine.
The concern stemmed from reports of rising anti-India sentiment among Ukrainians, who perceived India’s diplomatic stance as being aligned with Russian President Vladimir Putin amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. This sentiment was shared with Modi’s team by the Indian diaspora in Ukraine, highlighting the difficult situation many Indians were facing in the country.
The most sensitive moment of the visit occurred when PM Modi paid tribute to the Mahatma Gandhi statue at the Oasis of Peace Park in Kyiv. Given the security concerns, the SPG deployed bullet-resistant (BR) shields around the Prime Minister. The shields were intended to counter any potential threat, particularly the possibility of a sniper attack, as Modi walked through the park. News channels aired footage showing the BR shields being positioned strategically, with security personnel surrounding the area in large numbers.
A total of over 60 SPG commandos, led by Director Alok Sharma, were stationed at the park to oversee the security operations. These measures were taken following reports from the Indian community, who were experiencing hostility due to their perceived association with Russia. The SPG remained on high alert throughout Modi’s visit, closely monitoring his movements and securing all locations he visited.
The Prime Minister also met with members of the Indian diaspora in Ukraine, where it was conveyed that many Indians in the country were facing challenges due to growing anti-India sentiments. This sentiment had been fueled by Ukraine’s perception of India’s neutrality or alignment with Russia in the ongoing conflict.
As PM Modi’s visit drew to a close and he boarded a train bound for Poland, where he would fly back to New Delhi, his security team heaved a collective sigh of relief. The mission, despite the high level of risk and tension, had been successfully managed without any incident.