Bringing two warring sides to the negotiation table is one of the most difficult yet critical steps in achieving peace. As hostilities intensify, it becomes increasingly challenging to encourage the conflicting parties to engage in dialogue. However, a breakthrough can be achieved when a stronger player with influence over both parties steps forward and persuades them to resolve their differences through talks rather than on the battlefield.
In the case of the Middle East, the U.S., through its allies, has often managed to initiate peace processes. However, the situation with the Russia-Ukraine war is far more complex due to the direct involvement of military superpowers like Russia and NATO. The conflict has reached a point where both sides, though weary of the prolonged hostilities, remain entangled due to the vested interests and stakes involved. Achieving peace will require significant diplomatic efforts.
BRICS and the Global South’s Call for Peace
A peace initiative has been proposed by BRICS, with countries like India, China, and Brazil playing an active role in pushing the process forward. Many countries in the Global South have called for a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, urging both nations, formerly part of the USSR, to come to the negotiation table.
While BRICS is often perceived as an informal association with limited collective power, it is important not to underestimate its potential influence. Between China, an autocratic power, and Brazil, a democracy striving to become a significant player in the Southern Hemisphere, there are undoubtedly more differences than similarities. Yet, BRICS boasts the presence of three major superpowers—India, China, and Russia. Both India and China possess two of the world’s most powerful armed forces and are responsible nuclear powers, which makes their diplomatic initiatives significant.
However, the fact that Russia is a BRICS member does create a perception of bias, which hampers the bloc’s image as an independent peacemaker. Despite this, India emerges as a unique player with strong ties to both Russia and the West.
Ajit Doval Meets Putin: India’s Diplomatic Tightrope
India’s position in the Russia-Ukraine conflict is delicate. As a nation with long-standing ties to Russia and growing relations with the U.S. and other Western countries, India must balance its foreign policy carefully. Acknowledging this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken bold diplomatic steps. One such initiative is the potential visit by the Indian Prime Minister to both Ukraine and Russia, where Modi could engage in direct talks with President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
A more immediate and impactful move was sending India’s National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, to meet Putin. The focus of this meeting was to further the peace process and deliver a crucial message from India. This act of shrewd diplomacy highlights India’s attempt to bring Russia and Ukraine closer to the negotiation table while maintaining its own international relationships.
Ajit Doval’s meeting with Putin underscores India’s influential role in potentially brokering peace. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni openly requested India’s involvement in the peace negotiations, underscoring the global recognition of India’s capacity to mediate in such complex conflicts.
India and China: A Joint Effort to Foster Peace
India is not alone in its diplomatic push for peace. China, another BRICS heavyweight and a close ally of Russia, has also indicated a willingness to engage in peace talks. Both India and China are uniquely positioned to influence Russia, as they maintain strong bilateral ties with Moscow. Together, these two Asian giants can potentially steer the warring sides toward a ceasefire, offering an alternative to the continued devastation of war.
India’s careful balancing act between the West and Russia is a diplomatic feat in itself. While India cannot afford to strain its relationship with Western nations, it also seeks to maintain its historically close ties with Russia. By sending Ajit Doval to meet Putin, India has reaffirmed its commitment to seeking a peaceful resolution while keeping its international relationships intact.
Conclusion: A Path Forward for Peace
The Russia-Ukraine conflict is far from simple, and bringing both sides to the negotiating table will require more than just diplomatic words. However, with leaders like Prime Minister Modi and diplomats like Ajit Doval taking decisive action, there is hope for a peaceful resolution. The role of India in these peace talks is crucial, and Ajit Doval’s meeting with Putin may serve as the first step in bridging the gap between the warring nations. With BRICS and the Global South advocating for peace, India’s continued efforts could make all the difference in the path toward peace between Russia and Ukraine.
