India (Commonwealth Union)_ The long speculation of India playing a potential peacekeeper role between Russia and Ukraine has sparked discussions about the country’s diplomatic stature and its potential to contribute positively to global stability and conflict resolution efforts. As a significant player in global politics with a history of non-alignment and diplomacy, India’s stance on international disputes holds weight. This introduction will explore the possibility of India serving as a mediator or peacekeeper in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, considering India’s diplomatic principles, its relationship with both nations, and the broader geopolitical landscape.
Also read: Can NRI voting influence the 2024 Lok Sabha elections?
The whole subject of peacekeeping unfolds on the background of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent discussions with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin. These exchanges happened against the backdrop of Putin’s reelection as President and the absence of signs indicating a de-escalation in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. According to sources, both leaders expressed their regard for India as a peacemaker. Accordingly, it was reported that both Zelenskyy and Putin extended invitations to Prime Minister Modi to visit their respective countries following the Lok Sabha elections. Notably, Prime Minister Modi last visited Russia in 2018.
Also read: Will PM Modi’s southern campaign influence election results?
During the phone conversation with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Prime Minister Modi explored avenues to enhance the partnership between India and Ukraine. He reiterated India’s people-centric approach and emphasized the necessity for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the ongoing dispute. The Prime Minister affirmed India’s commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution through all available means. Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy expressed appreciation for India’s ongoing humanitarian assistance to Ukraine’s populace. Both leaders agreed to maintain communication. In May 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Ukrainian President convened on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Japan’s Hiroshima. This marked their first face-to-face meeting since the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February of that year.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also placed a call to Russian President Vladimir Putin, conveying his wishes once again on his re-election. During their discussion, both leaders concurred on intensifying efforts to bolster the ‘Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership’ between India and Russia. Following the conversation, India emphasized diplomacy and dialogue to resolve the conflict, which commenced with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Additionally, the Ministry of External Affairs also underscored India’s desire for continual engagement to facilitate peace. According to its statement, “India desires that there be discussion, there be diplomacy, there be constant engagements so that both sides can come together and find peace.”
Vladimir Putin secured victory in the Presidential elections with 87.17 percent of the votes. Nikolai Kharitonov, the candidate from the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, came in second position with 4.1 percent of the votes, while Vladislav Davankov from the New People Party won third with 4.8 percent of the votes. Putin has already served four terms as Russian President, first assuming office in 2000 and subsequently being re-elected in 2004, 2012, and 2018. He has consistently dominated the polls and solidified his control over the Kremlin with another six-year term. However, western nations have criticized the election as extremely undemocratic.
The invitation of Prime Minister Modi by the leaders of Russia and Ukraine for peacekeeping is a significant development. It underscores India’s diplomatic prowess and its potential role in mediating complex international disputes. Modi’s involvement could offer fresh perspectives and possibly facilitate dialogue between the conflicting parties. However, it’s crucial for India to navigate this delicate situation with caution, ensuring fairness and impartiality in its peacekeeping efforts. Ultimately, if managed effectively, Modi’s participation could contribute positively to easing tensions and fostering stability in the region.
Earlier, the prime minister expressed hopes that the foreign leaders’ offers for him to visit their nations support his prediction that he will win the next Lok Sabha elections, which are scheduled to begin on April 19 and finish in the first week of June. Additionally, during his speech to thousands of BJP delegates at the party’s conference last month, he added that he has already received invitations from several other foreign nations for engagements in July, August, and September and that this implies that these nations are aware of the fact that Modi will be reelected for the third term.
In essence, while the invitation for PM Modi’s involvement reflects a vote of confidence in India’s diplomatic capabilities, it also underscores the challenges and responsibilities inherent in mediating conflicts of such magnitude. Furthermore, Modi’s engagement in the conflict could enhance India’s standing on the global stage, showcasing its willingness to play a proactive role in addressing international crises. Ultimately, the path to peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict will require sustained dialogue, mutual understanding, and the collective efforts of the international community.
