India’s Mediatory Role in Russia-Ukraine Crisis

India’s Mediatory Role in the Russia-Ukraine Crisis

• Diplomatic Messaging: India has conveyed messages between Russia, Ukraine, and Western countries during the ongoing conflict, signalling its willingness to engage diplomatically.
• India’s Non-Aligned Stance: India has maintained a neutral position by not explicitly condemning Russia’s actions while emphasising the importance of peace, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
• India’s Goodwill: As a country with strong historical ties to both Russia and the West, India can leverage its diplomatic goodwill to mediate between the two parties, although this will require considerable time, patience, and diplomatic capital.

Challenges in India’s Mediation Role

• Despite India’s efforts, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine remains volatile, with ongoing escalations, such as Ukraine’s invasion of Kursk, Russian missile strikes, and Ukraine’s demand for long-range strikes on Russia.
• India is not the only country involved in peacemaking initiatives. Countries like Türkiye, Indonesia, and Hungary have also been mediating between the warring sides since the 2022 invasion.
• Multiple peace proposals have emerged, including:
  • Proposals by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
  • A proposal by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
  • The Bürgenstock Communiqué.
  • A six-point proposal from Brazil and China.

India’s Role in Global Peacemaking

• Prime Minister Modi is expected to travel to the U.S. this month for UN meetings, the Quad Summit, and possibly another meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
• Modi will also travel to Russia for the BRICS summit, where further diplomatic responsibilities related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict could arise.
• India’s potential mediatory role in this conflict must be grounded in realistic expectations, as the situation remains far from resolution.

Conclusion

Ajit Doval’s visit to Russia underscored India’s diplomatic engagement with key global players. His discussions with both Russian and Chinese leaders reflect India’s strategic balancing between its relationships with the two major powers. The outcomes of these meetings, especially regarding the India-China LAC disengagement and India’s potential role in the Russia-Ukraine peacemaking process, carry significant geopolitical weight ahead of the crucial BRICS summit in October 2024.

Sharing is caring!