Prime Minister Narendra Modi is at the forefront of global diplomacy, being one of the first world leaders to emphasize that “this is not the era of war” directly to Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. During recent visits to Russia and Ukraine, which occurred within six weeks of each other, Modi offered his personal assistance to bring an end to the ongoing conflict, a move closely observed by Western nations.
As part of India’s active efforts, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is scheduled to travel to Moscow this week to explore potential frameworks for a peace agreement between the two warring nations. This follows Modi’s recent phone conversation with Putin, where the Russian leader acknowledged India’s potential role in mediating a resolution. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has also echoed this sentiment, further bolstering India’s position on the global stage.
The question that arises is: Can Prime Minister Modi actually help bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine war? Many within India’s diplomatic circles believe Modi is well-positioned to play a key mediating role, given his strong relationships with both Putin and Zelenskyy. His public interactions, from placing a supportive arm on Zelenskyy’s shoulder in Kyiv to the much-debated embrace with Putin, seem to reflect the personal rapport he shares with both leaders.
With the focus on world hostilities and international peace, one of the key highlights of PM Modi’s upcoming trip to the United States will be the ‘Summit of the Future,’ scheduled for September 22-23 during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Modi is set to participate in this summit rather than the general debate, where India will be represented by Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar. Modi’s bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit are expected to be closely monitored, as they may include discussions on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The provisional agenda for the ‘Summit of the Future’ poses a critical question regarding global divisions: “How can multilateral cooperation, based on the UN Charter and international law, be reinvigorated and enhanced to address current challenges to international peace and security, in an increasingly complex and interconnected world?” This question directly aligns with Modi’s ongoing diplomatic efforts.
India has also agreed to switch the hosting duties of the QUAD Summit with the United States this year, and Modi is set to visit Delaware on September 21 to participate in the event. His recent trips to Russia and Ukraine may feature prominently in the discussions at the summit.
Modi’s approach to peace
Prime Minister Modi has emphasized the importance of territorial integrity and conveyed a message of peace to Zelenskyy, drawing inspiration from India’s legacy of non-violence through figures like Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi. “Our approach is to be on the side of peace… we want to distance ourselves from war,” Modi stated during his visit to Ukraine. A peace deal brokered by Modi may well follow this principle.
Foreign Minister Jaishankar echoed this sentiment, stating, “If there is anything we can do, either directly or in a supportive role, we are willing to do whatever is necessary. The continuation of this conflict is disastrous for Ukraine and the world.”
However, significant challenges remain. These diplomatic developments come amidst ongoing fighting, with Russia recently claiming control over a town in eastern Ukraine and Ukraine making an incursion into Russia’s Kursk region. Civilian casualties also continue to mount, with five more people killed in strikes on Sunday.
If Modi succeeds in brokering peace, it would solidify India’s leadership role in global affairs, positioning the country as a true “Vishwamitra” — a friend of the world.
