The road to Ukraine peace runs through Delhi

Context: Nearly 40 days ago, Russia launched a military invasion of Ukraine. Despite peace talks, direct negotiations between the conflicting parties have failed to make much progress. India can play an important role in its resolution.

Mediation as a conflict resolution tool that can assist the parties in identifying their hidden ‘interests’. It is a flexible conflict resolution tool facilitated by a neutral third party. Due to its potential, the Article 33 of the UN Charter recognises the promise of mediation for a peaceful resolution of international disputes.

The best known example of mediation is the U.S. President Jimmy Carter who mediated peace between Israel and Egypt (known as Camp David Accords of 1978). It resulted in 44 years of peace.

A neutral third party can act as a ‘go-between’ (shuttle diplomacy) to gather more information and help parties identify their hidden interests.

Why mediation can be an effective tool?

Mediation as a tool would help focus on number one priority. i.e., the safety of the Ukrainian people through a complete ceasefire. Russia will also be obliged to participate as opting for mediation is the only way left for Russia to save face and escape the sanctions that have cripples its economy.

For the West, going ahead with mediation presents itself as an opportunity to include Russia in the security infrastructure of Europe (like it did with East Germany after the fall of Berlin Wall in 1989).

India’s role as a mediator between Ukraine and Russia 

Recent visits from various foreign dignitaries show that the world expects India to play a more active role in the Ukrainian crisis.

It can be India’s golden chance to establish itself as a global power. It is in India’s long-term interest in countering the China threat. The U.S. and its allies need India as a strategic partner to balance the rise of China in the Indo-Pacific.

For now, India is right in not taking sides. India must step up and live up to its claim of being a ‘Vishwa-Guru’ (or world leader).

Source: This post is created based on the article “The road to Ukraine peace runs through Delhi” published in 5^th April 2022 in The Hindu.