The Case for Indian Mediation in the Ukraine War

The article advocates for India’s mediation in the Ukraine-Russia war, arguing that India should not delay its role based on future power dynamics. It outlines three reasons supporting India’s involvement: strategic timing for negotiation, India’s acceptability among nations involved, and the alignment of mediation with India’s national interests. The piece asserts that India’s economic prowess positions it well for this role, urging it to seize the moment for meaningful diplomatic engagement.

India is urged to mediate in the Ukraine-Russia war, as waiting to become more powerful before taking such action is an outdated notion. The Ministry of External Affairs articulated last year that India is prepared to offer support towards peaceful solutions in the ongoing conflict. Given the current geopolitical tensions, this is the crucial moment for New Delhi to act as a facilitator for peace negotiations between the involved nations.

India’s neutral stance regarding Russia’s invasion has yielded strategic benefits, allowing it to maintain relationships with both Russia and the West. However, with the evolving dynamics of global power politics, particularly under the leadership of figures such as former President Donald Trump, India cannot afford to remain passive. Currently, the negotiations occurring in Riyadh represent a significant opportunity for India to engage in mediation efforts with American involvement.

Three compelling reasons support India’s intervention at this time. First, as Russia looks to conclude hostilities to alleviate sanctions and rekindle discussions with the United States, there is an emerging window for mediation. The recent talks in Riyadh have yet to include Ukraine, calling for India’s proactive role to bring all parties together.

Secondly, India enjoys a level of acceptability in multiple capitals. Its status as a neutral party may facilitate dialogue among the various stakeholders, including the hesitant Chinese influence. Lastly, engaging in the mediation process aligns with India’s national interests, promising geopolitical gains while enhancing its aspiration to emerge as a significant player on the global stage.

Furthermore, in the event of a ceasefire, Ukraine is likely to require assurances against future aggression from Russia. Given their neutrality and experience, Indian peacekeepers are well-positioned to be deployed as mediators should this need arise. India should strive to actively negotiate peace, rather than simply participating in agreements brokered by others.

However, three barriers inhibit India’s mediation efforts, primarily a fear of unsuccessful outcomes. Nevertheless, the potential for geopolitical benefits and global influence should outweigh concerns about failure. Mediation is often used as a method not solely for resolution but also for enhancing the mediator’s status.

Practical measures for India could include appointing a special envoy to engage with conflicting parties, gauge their concerns, and facilitate a series of negotiations hosted within India. Compared to current mediators, India’s economic stature far exceeds others, suggesting that effective mediation is more a matter of political will than economic strength. Given its experiences with international mediation in past conflicts, India bears a responsibility to step forward in resolving global conflicts now.

In conclusion, India stands at a pivotal junction where it must embrace the role of mediator in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. By leveraging its unique position and acceptability among key players, India can not only foster peace but also elevate its status as a global power. This proactive approach aligns with national interests and offers a significant opportunity to contribute positively in an increasingly multipolar world, where engagement and diplomacy are essential.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com