India's Role in Russia-Ukraine Conflict: S Jaishankar Highlights PM Modi's Efforts

Washington, DC [US], October 1: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discussed India's position in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, emphasizing New Delhi's role in facilitating communication between the two sides. Speaking at an event hosted by the Carnegie Endowment in the United States, Jaishankar highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visits to both Russia and Ukraine.

India's Stance on the Conflict

Jaishankar stated, "Our public position is we do not believe that differences or disputes between countries can be settled by war. A second public position is we do not believe that we can actually get from the battlefield a decisive outcome." He stressed the need for negotiation and communication between the parties involved.

Prime Minister Modi's Visits

Prime Minister Modi visited Russia in July and Ukraine in August this year. Jaishankar noted that few leaders can visit both countries and hold talks with their leaders. He also mentioned Modi's significant statement to President Putin at the SCO summit in Uzbekistan in 2022, where Modi said, "this is not the era of war." This statement was included in the G20 communique under India's presidency.

India's Efforts in Communication

Jaishankar explained that India aims to assist in communication between Moscow and Kyiv without hyping the situation. He mentioned various engagements, including visits by India's National Security Advisor and other officials to both capitals. "We keep talking to both sides as well, measured and circumspect about what we are doing, we are not hyping it," he said.

India's Unique Position

Jaishankar emphasized that not many countries can visit both Moscow and Kyiv and talk to their leaders. He clarified that India does not have a 'peace plan' but is trying to be helpful in resolving the conflict. "We are simply trying to do something helpful, reflecting the widespread anxiety in the world that this conflict is actually making everybody's life very difficult," he added.