Modi’s historic diplomacy during turbulent time in Ukraine

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M A Hossain
  • Update Time : Monday, August 26, 2024
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India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a diplomatic journey that has attracted significant global attention, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This trip, notable for its rarity and significance, includes meetings with key Polish leaders and a historic visit to Ukraine, a first in the history of both countries. Modi’s tour, which began with a visit to Poland on August 22 and is expected to culminate in a meeting with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky on August 23, underscores India’s delicate balancing act in a world increasingly divided by the conflict.

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Poland, a key NATO member, marks the first visit by an Indian head of government to the Eastern European country in 45 years. The discussions with Polish President Andrzej Duda and Prime Minister Donald Tusk are set to focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in the areas of trade, defense, and infrastructure, as well as addressing regional and global issues of mutual interest. Poland, being at the frontline of NATO’s support for Ukraine, presents a significant strategic partner for India, which has sought to navigate its foreign policy amidst the complex dynamics of the Ukraine conflict.

Speaking to members of the Indian diaspora in Warsaw, Modi emphasized India’s commitment to diplomacy and dialogue, reiterating that “this is not the era of war.” His comments reflect India’s long-standing position on the conflict-calling for a ceasefire and advocating for peace-while refraining from directly condemning Russia. This nuanced stance is a reflection of India’s strategic interests, particularly its longstanding defense ties with Moscow.

India’s approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict has been marked by a careful balancing act. While New Delhi has consistently called for an end to hostilities and a peaceful resolution, it has stopped short of condemning Russia’s actions outright. This stance is largely driven by India’s need to maintain its strategic partnership with Russia, which has been a key supplier of military equipment to India for decades. In addition, India has significantly increased its purchases of discounted Russian crude oil since the start of the conflict, providing Moscow with a crucial economic lifeline in the face of Western sanctions.

Modi’s recent visit to Moscow, where he held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, further underscores the complexity of India’s position. The visit, which took place amidst a renewed Russian assault on Ukrainian cities, drew sharp criticism from Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the meeting, calling it a “devastating blow” to peace efforts, particularly as it coincided with a deadly strike on a children’s hospital in Ukraine.

Despite these criticisms, Modi has continued to advocate for dialogue and peace. During his visit to Moscow, he made some of his most pointed remarks to date on the conflict, expressing concern over the loss of innocent lives, particularly children. “Whether it’s conflict, war or terror, any person who believes in humanity is troubled when there are deaths, especially when innocent children die,” Modi said, while also calling for a “path to peace through dialogue.”

India’s position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict has also been shaped by its broader strategic interests on the global stage. As a major power in the Global South, India has sought to position itself as a potential peace broker, along with other key players like China and Brazil. These countries have typically called for both sides in the conflict to engage in dialogue, avoiding direct condemnation of Russia’s actions.

India’s participation in international peace efforts has been cautious. For instance, while India attended a Ukraine-backed international peace summit in Switzerland earlier this year, it did not endorse a joint communique at the end of the gathering, a stance shared by several other major economies of the Global South. China, another key player in this group, did not attend the summit at all, citing Russia’s exclusion as a reason.

New Delhi’s cautious approach is also reflected in its voting patterns at the United Nations. India has abstained from all resolutions calling for Russia’s withdrawal from Ukraine and condemning its actions, a move that underscores its desire to maintain neutrality in the conflict. This neutrality, however, has come under increasing scrutiny, particularly as the conflict drags on with no end in sight.

Modi’s expected visit to Ukraine marks a historic moment in India’s foreign policy. It is the first time an Indian prime minister has visited the war-torn country, signaling a potential shift in India’s approach to the conflict. During his visit, Modi is expected to meet with President Zelensky and discuss the “entire gamut of bilateral relations,” including economic ties, infrastructure, and defense. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine will undoubtedly form a significant part of these discussions.

This visit comes at a critical juncture in the conflict, as Ukrainian forces have recently launched an unprecedented offensive into Russian territory, nearly two and a half years after Moscow’s invasion. The situation on the ground remains fluid, with international efforts to find a path to peace so far proving unsuccessful.

For India, this visit represents a delicate balancing act. On one hand, New Delhi seeks to maintain its strategic partnership with Russia, which remains a key supplier of military equipment and energy resources. On the other hand, India is under increasing pressure from the West and its allies to take a more definitive stance on the conflict.

As Modi navigates this complex diplomatic landscape, his actions will be closely watched by the international community. His visit to Ukraine, following closely on the heels of his trip to Russia, could signal a more active role for India in international peace efforts. However, the extent to which India is willing to engage in these efforts, particularly given its deep ties with Moscow, remains to be seen.

Ultimately, Modi’s European tour highlights the challenges India faces as it seeks to balance its strategic interests with its role as a global leader. As the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, the world will be watching to see how India, under Modi’s leadership, positions itself in this increasingly polarized global landscape.

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Avatar photo M A Hossain, Special Contributor to Blitz is a political and defense analyst. He regularly writes for local and international newspapers.

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