New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, requested him ensure the safe evacuation of Indian nationals stranded in war-torn Ukraine's Sumy city at the earliest.

Prime Minister has also urged the Russian President to hold direct talks with President Zelensky of Ukraine, in addition to the ongoing peace talks between the two countries.

The two leaders discussed the ongoing situation in Ukraine on a phone, both leaders have discussed at length about Russia- the Ukraine war, Mr. Modi asked Putin to ensure safe returns of Indian nationals who were stranded in a few cities of Ukraine. On the other hand, Mr. Putin has assured PM Modi of all possible cooperation in the evacuation of Indian nationals from the war-torn country.

Around 700 to 900 Indian students have been stranded in Sumy in northeast Ukraine amid bombing and gunfights. They have shared several videos of their plight, saying they have scant resources and fear for their lives. Videos showed them collecting snow to melt for water as they reportedly don't have access to enough food and water, NDTV reported.

The two leaders discussed the evolving situation in Ukraine in a phone call that lasted about 50 minutes, government sources said.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi also spoke to the Ukrainian President and sought his support in evacuating Indians stuck in Ukraine's Sumy city amid the Russian invasion. Maintaining a neutral stand, he also appreciated the "continuing direct dialogue between Russia and Ukraine".

President Putin reportedly briefed Prime Minister Modi on the status of negotiations between the Ukrainian and Russian teams, NDTV reports stated.

"Prime Minister Modi appreciated the announcement of ceasefire and establishment of humanitarian corridors in parts of Ukraine, including Sumy," the source said.