Former British Prime Minister David Cameron believes that India could play a significant role in mediating peace talks between Russia and Ukraine but only if it stands firm against Russian President Vladimir Putin. India has been walking a diplomatic tightrope since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, critiquing potential violations of international law while refraining from condemning the war entirely. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visits to Kyiv and Moscow, in close succession, sparked criticism, especially when he greeted Putin warmly on the same day a Ukrainian children’s hospital was bombed.
During a media summit organised by Indian broadcaster NDTV in Delhi, Cameron expressed his view that India holds the credibility to mediate in the Ukraine conflict. However, he stressed the importance of ensuring that Putin does not annex territory by force. As Russia continues its expansion into eastern and southern Ukraine, and with both countries facing a third winter at war, prospects for peace in the short term remain dim. Ukraine is resolute in not surrendering its territories, while Russia claims annexation of several provinces.
Cameron’s comments coincided with a Brics bloc summit hosted by Russia, with Modi also attending the NDTV event before heading to the summit in Kazan. The former UK Prime Minister advocated for India to have a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, citing its economic strength, democratic values, and commitment to green initiatives as crucial for addressing the climate crisis. Modi’s recent diplomatic interactions, including the visit to Ukraine, have been viewed as attempts to balance relationships with both Russia and Western allies.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine sees President Zelensky outlining a “victory plan” to bolster the Ukrainian military and pursue Nato membership to deter future Russian aggression. Putin, in a recent media event, remained steadfast in his stance, claiming that Nato is engaging in a war against Russia and expressing confidence in Russia’s eventual victory. He acknowledged India’s strategic partnership and support while emphasising that the Brics bloc is not anti-Western but rather non-Western in nature.
India’s relationship with Russia has drawn concern from the US, urging India to leverage its ties with Moscow to persuade Putin to end the conflict in Ukraine. While the US has conveyed its apprehensions privately to the Indian government, the discussions remain ongoing. Despite the complexities of India’s associations with both Russia and the West, India’s role as a mediator in the Ukraine war continues to be scrutinised on the international stage.