The war between Russia and Ukraine has been going on for a long time and it has now been almost 5 years since it started. Many countries, including America, have tried to stop this war, but no permanent solution has been found yet. Now India has once again strengthened its role in the pursuit of peace. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiha has described India’s ceasefire proposal as the most effective compared to the proposals of America, Turkey and Egypt.
India’s proposal is not just to stop firing. In which first of all an attempt has been made to reach a consensus on some important issues related to the war. These include stopping attacks on energy targets, not targeting civilians and resuming normal activities in the Black Sea. After this it is a matter of moving towards permanent peace. However, the full details of the proposal are yet to emerge. In such a situation, the biggest question is how much Russia accepts these suggestions from India.
What is India’s proposal?
India’s plan can be understood in two phases. First, efforts will be made to reach a consensus on such issues on which immediate action can be taken. After this, efforts will be made to advance the dialogue between the two countries regarding permanent peace. According to the Foreign Minister of Ukraine, India’s proposal is the most effective compared to the proposals of America, Turkey and Egypt. However, its complete details are yet to emerge. So, it is too early to call this a final peace plan.
- Preventing attacks on energy targets: Efforts to prevent targeting of targets related to electricity and energy.
- Protection of general public: Emphasis on preventing attacks on civilians and residential areas.
- Common Activities in the Black Sea: Efforts to normalize maritime trade and other essential activities.
- Opens the way for dialogue: Build trust between the two countries by agreeing on minor issues.
- Moving towards lasting peace: Starting negotiations on key issues after initial agreement.
First small steps, then big peace
The most important part of India’s effort is to first reach a consensus on issues on which both Russia and Ukraine can be prepared to some extent. Energy infrastructure and activities related to the Black Sea have been continuously affected during the war. If the two countries agree to stop attacks on energy targets and start safe maneuvers in the Black Sea, this could ease tensions. It can also help in building trust between the two countries. This can be followed by discussion on difficult issues like land, border, authorized areas and security. This part will be the most challenging.
How is India different from America, Turkey and Egypt?
The US, Turkey and Egypt have also made various efforts to prevent a Russia-Ukraine war. But what is special about India’s initiative is that it combines an immediate ceasefire and long-term peace as a process. India wants to de-escalate tensions on some important issues first.
After this, efforts can be made to lead the two countries towards a lasting peace. This is the reason why Ukraine has considered India’s proposal as the most effective. Another feature of India is that it is communicating with both Russia and Ukraine. This helps him keep the lines of communication open between the two parties.
What was the proposal of four countries?
India’s proposal covers both the energy sector and the Black Sea. In which, emphasis has been placed on preventing attacks on energy centers and ports and on safe movement of ships in the Black Sea. America’s focus is on stopping attacks on Russian and Ukrainian energy bases. At the same time, the emphasis of Turkey and Egypt is on restoring the movement of grain and agricultural products in the Black Sea. Its purpose is to resume grain exports from Ukraine. Ukraine has described India’s proposal as comprehensive and practical.
Why is the Black Sea important?
The Black Sea is an important sea route for Ukraine’s trade and grain exports. The war has affected shipping here. If safe movement is restored, trade and supply of essential goods can be facilitated. Its inclusion in India’s proposal is significant as it aims not only to stop fighting but also to resume normal activities.
Impact of Jaishankar’s diplomacy
S Jaishankar during his visit to Ukraine met Zelenskiy and Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiha and discussed peace and the Black Sea. India is constantly talking about finding a solution through dialogue. India’s peace initiatives have also received positive signals from Russia.
The biggest challenge is Russia’s consent
India’s proposal will succeed only if both Russia and Ukraine are ready to accept it. Ukraine continues to demand a ceasefire, while Russia insists on a permanent and comprehensive peace agreement. A consensus could be reached on issues such as halting attacks on energy targets and resuming normal activities in the Black Sea. But big issues like border, authorized areas and security are still challenges. India’s initiative could pave the way for larger peace talks if both countries agree on small steps. But if no consensus is reached, the war may take time to end.
