India’s response to the Ukraine-Russia conflict is characterized by calm, prudence, and poise. Instead of getting drawn into a quagmire where it has no vital interest involved, New Delhi has merely said that the conflict is a “matter of deep concern” and “peace and security of the region” should not be undermined.
On the day when Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion, Ukraine sought greater intervention from India. Igor Polikha, the Ukrainian Ambassador to New Delhi, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is among the very few leaders whom President Vladimir Putin listens to and New Delhi can use its proximity with Moscow to control the situation.
Polikha, however, said that Ukraine is “deeply dissatisfied” with India’s position on the crisis. He said India has a special relationship with Russia and it can play a more proactive role in the de-escalation of the situation.
On the other hand, Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin had earlier said that India has been playing a vital role as a responsible global power and it takes an “independent and balanced” approach to world affairs.
It is worth recalling that India’s response to the Ukraine-Russia conflict has been characterized by calm, prudence, and poise. Instead of getting drawn into a quagmire where it has no vital interest involved, New Delhi has merely said that the conflict is a “matter of deep concern” and “peace and security of the region” should not be undermined.
India, however, has been composed. Its Permanent Representative to the United Nations, TS Tirumurti, said at the UNSC meeting, “The escalation of tension along the border of Ukraine with the Russian Federation is a matter of deep concern. These developments have the potential to undermine peace and security of the region.”
India’s primary concern is about 20,000 nationals, most of whom are students, in Ukraine. “Safety and security of civilians are essential,” Tirumurti said. “More than 20,000 Indian students and nationals live and study in different parts of Ukraine, including in its border areas. The wellbeing of Indians is of priority to us.”
Tirumurti said, “We strongly emphasize the vital need for all sides to maintain international peace and security by exercising the utmost restraint and intensifying diplomatic efforts to ensure that a mutually amicable solution arrives at the earliest.”
