Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated that India could play a role as a mediator in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
Mr. Putin was speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok on September 5, 2024, when he expressed confidence in India’s capability to facilitate peace talks alongside China and Brazil.
The Russian President’s comments come at a time when global efforts to mediate the conflict have intensified.
He referred to an early, albeit unimplemented, agreement reached between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators in Istanbul during the initial weeks of the war. This agreement, which Mr. Putin suggested could serve as a foundation for future negotiations, underscored Russia’s readiness for dialogue based on previously agreed terms.
The Russian President’s mention of India as a mediator is particularly noteworthy. It not only reflects Russia’s strategic trust in India but also acknowledges Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s relentless diplomatic efforts in advocating for peace. PM Modi’s recent visits to both Kyiv and Moscow have positioned India as a neutral yet influential player in international diplomacy, capable of engaging with both sides of the conflict.
India has been vocal about promoting dialogue over conflict. Prime Minister Modi’s engagement with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Putin himself has been seen as a proactive step towards de-escalation, emphasizing India’s stance on diplomacy and peaceful resolution.
Russian President Putin’s comments could shift the dynamics of the peace process, offering a new platform for negotiation that is less influenced by Western perspectives, given India’s policy of strategic autonomy.
However, the effectiveness of India’s mediation largely depends on its ability to maintain neutrality while navigating the complex web of international alliances and interests.