India’s potential role in peace diplomacy for Ukraine

Source: The post India’s potential role in peace diplomacy for Ukraine has been created, based on the article “C Raja Mohan writes: India’s role in peacemaking in Ukraine” published in “Indian Express” on 11th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper-2- Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Context: The article discusses India’s potential role in peace diplomacy for Ukraine. It highlights the complex situation involving Russia, Ukraine, the US, and Europe. India supports peace but must be aware of its limitations in influencing the outcome of this conflict.

For detailed information on India’s role in Russia-Ukraine Crisis read this article here

What is India’s Role in Ukraine Peace Talks?

1. India supports peace in Ukraine and has advocated for dialogue since Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
2. Russia welcomes India’s involvement, as noted by President Putin’s openness to diplomacy from India, Brazil, and China.
3. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar and National Security Adviser Doval have engaged in European and Russian discussions.
4. Hungary’s peace efforts, led by Prime Minister Orban, have briefed Indian leadership on their initiatives.
5. However, peace in Ukraine depends on a new agreement between Russia and the US, with India’s role remaining supportive but limited.

What Recent Moves Have Been Made Towards Peace?

1. Global South Diplomacy: Russia’s President Vladimir Putin welcomed peace diplomacy from Brazil, China, and India. Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy also supports involvement from Global South nations.
2. Upcoming Peace Conference: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the need for a peace conference in November, suggesting Russia’s participation. This would be a step forward, as Russia was excluded from a previous conference in June.
3. Hungarian Peace Initiative: Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met key actors like Putin, Xi Jinping, and Trump to push for peace. He reported that the US, China, and the EU have the capacity to influence the war dynamics.
4. Indian Diplomacy: India’s External Affairs Minister Jaishankar visited Europe, National Security Adviser Doval traveled to Moscow, and Prime Minister Modi consulted with Quad leaders, showing India’s growing engagement.

What Challenges Are Faced in Achieving Peace?

1. US-Russia Tensions: Peace depends on a new security order between the US and Russia, as they shaped European security after World War II and in 1991.
2. Upcoming US Elections: Both Putin and Zelenskyy are watching the US elections, as it will influence peace efforts.
3. EU Division: The European Union is split on how to handle the war, with some supporting Ukraine and others, like Hungary, pushing for peace talks.
4. Continued Fighting: As winter nears, both Russia and Ukraine are still fighting to gain territory before peace talks.

How Could the War Impact India?

1. Geopolitical Realignment: The war may lead to a reorganization of Europe’s political landscape. This could affect India’s international relations as new global and regional orders emerge.
2. Economic Consequences: The conflict has already put pressure on India’s economy. Restoring peace would help India accelerate economic growth, essential for its development.
3. Security Challenges: India’s security policies are impacted by the instability in Europe. Peace between Russia and the West would help India focus on ensuring security in Asia.
4. Diplomatic Role: India’s active participation in peace diplomacy, as seen in its dialogue with Hungary and Europe, enhances its global influence.

Question for practice:

Discuss the challenges faced in achieving peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.