Why Modi-Zelenskyy call is an inflection point

Source– The post is based on the article “Why Modi-Zelenskyy call is an inflection point” published in The Times of India on 6th October 2022.

Syllabus: GS2- International Relations

Relevance– Russia -Ukraine war

News- The article explains the possibility of India’s role in reducing the tension between Russia and Ukraine. It also explains the consequences of war.

What has been India’s position on the Russia-Ukraine war?

Since the beginning, India has maintained a neutral position in the Ukraine war. It didn’t criticize Russia for the Ukraine invasion.

Recently, PM Modi rebuked Putin at the SCO summit in Samarkand. He told Putin that it is not a time of war. There was a phone call between PM Modi and the Ukrainian President. They discussed the nuclear threat by Russia.

It shows that ties between India and Russia have reached an inflection point.

How can India contribute to peace efforts?

Western countries have invested heavily in war in favour of Russia. China enjoys no limits friendship with Russia and has supported Russia in the war. India due to its neutral position is better placed to reduce tensions.

India has openly said that it will contribute to peace efforts.

It may not be able to stop the war. But it could attempt to avoid a nuclear attack by Russia.

What are the consequences of war?

There is blatant violation of international laws, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Russian invasion has led to western sanctions. It has created a fuel, food and fertiliser crisis.

The world is facing a looming global economic recession.

Europe is facing an energy crisis.

The US led move to cap Russian oil prices has created confusion everywhere in the world. India and China will unlikely to agree with these price caps.