India has quietly taken on a significant role in efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, engaging in a series of diplomatic activities to mediate between the two countries. This effort includes meetings by NSA Ajit Doval with Russian President Vladimir Putin and engagements by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in Berlin. Indias diplomatic involvement in the conflict has been growing since June, signaling a more proactive stance in global peace efforts.

In June, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the G7 Summit, where he expressed humanitarian support for Ukraine and emphasized the need for dialogue. In July, Modi held confidential discussions with Putin in Moscow, seeking ways to initiate negotiations. In August, Modi visited Kyiv, providing humanitarian aid and hearing Zelenskyys concerns, which helped establish Indias credibility as a mediator. Following this, Dovals strategic visit to St. Petersburg in September aimed to present a peace plan to Putin, indicating Indias serious intent to mediate.

Jaishankar reinforced Indias stance during a visit to Germany, stressing the importance of negotiation and inclusion of Russia in peace talks. India advocates for diplomacy, recognizing both Ukraines concerns and the need for Russias involvement in the peace process.

India now has its own peace proposal on the table, aiming to succeed where others have failed, like Zelenskyys and Putins previous plans, as well as Chinas proposal for a summit. India might act as a mediator or host a peace summit, leveraging its reputation as a neutral player, though its uncertain how Russia and Ukraine will respond.

However, the situation is complex, with escalating conflict, Ukraines attacks on Russian territory, and demands for long-range military hardware adding to the tension. Russia warns that such developments could draw NATO directly into the war, complicating peace efforts. Indias role is critical, but success depends on the willingness of Russia, Ukraine, and NATO to negotiate.

Indias diplomatic push will continue with Modis upcoming meetings with world leaders, including the Quad Summit in the US and the BRICS Summit in Russia. As a nation that can communicate with all sides, India is investing considerable effort in bringing Russia and Ukraine to the negotiating table, signaling its commitment to ending the conflict. However, with rising tensions and the potential for escalation, the path to peace remains challenging.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.