India’s response to the Russia-Ukraine crisis has been distinctive. Despite the initial criticism by the West for their approach to the crisis, India’s “independent and balanced” approach to the situation in Ukraine has gained international recognition, with New Delhi’s assertion that this is “not an era of war” being used in the communiqué issued at the conclusion of the G20 Summit in Bali.
In the 365 days since the conflict began, what the world needs to understand is that finding a solution through diplomatic channels is preferable than opting for measures that further complicate the struggling global order.
Today, February 24, marks one year since Russia invaded Ukraine. A conflict that the whole world saw coming but miserably failed to avert, bringing unconsolable humanitarian sufferings while having a life-long impact.
The Russia-Ukraine conflict then perceived, to get contained in matter of few days, continues to add to horrific toll a year on now also with no end in sight to the war. It had put the world on edge of insecurity while altering many geopolitical calculations.The impending conflict in Ukraine, in turn, has exposed multiple fault lines within global diplomacy (especially in multilateral organisations). It had eroded the world’s high regard for multilateral institutions’ long-term viability.
The continued conflict in Ukraine has triggered the deadliest humanitarian situation on European soil since World War II, with millions leaving without access to food, water, and other essential supplies. The war has also wreaked havoc on civilian and civilian infrastructure, forcing millions to seek refuge in neighbouring countries. It had caused ripple effects that extended beyond the conflict zone and crossed international borders.
Aside from taking a heavy toll on human lives and wreaking havoc, the war has triggered an energy and food supply system crisis in a country already reeling from the effects of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic.It has further dimmed prospects for economic recovery for all emerging and developing economies.
While the war had pushed the world to break into two, i.e., the West versus the others, with countries running haywire taking sides, as against what the situation demands. The crisis calls on the world to follow a people-centric approach with added humanitarian hands and significant regular deliberation over the way out.
In this regard, India’s critical global voice has proven to be a game changer in the conflict, emphasising the path of dialogue and diplomacy. In fact, over the last year, Prime Minister Modi held several talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reiterating the call for an immediate cessation of hostilities while pursuing diplomacy. Notably, New Delhi’s strong emphasis on the path of dialogue and diplomacy while considering the national interest is something that the world has lauded. With its firm resolve to strive for peaceful solution over the conflict, while trying to recede the emerging devastating consequences which is being felt even in the distant region, New Delhi has demonstrated its role as an effective interlocuter.
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