The recent political development involving Ukraine has caught the eye of the global community. Predominantly, it revolves around a resolution drafted by the United States and Albania that sought to condemn Russian aggression, calling for an immediate cessation of violence and withdrawal of Russian military from Ukraine. This article delves into the details and implications of this scenario with a special emphasis on India’s perspective.
Understanding the Resolution
The anticipated resolution reaffirmed the United Nation Security Council’s commitment towards the sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its globally recognised borders. In strong terms, it deplored Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. The resolution decided that Russia should cease its use of force against Ukraine immediately and refrain from any further unlawful threat or use of force against any UN member state.
This resolution, however, did not pass since Russia, a permanent member and the President of the Security Council for February, exercised its veto power. It received 11 votes in favour and three abstentions, including those from China and India.
India’s Stand on the Crisis
India expressed its deep disturbance over the developments in Ukraine and urged for an immediate end to violence and hostilities. Dialogue was proposed as the only solution to settling differences and disputes, despite its apparent challenge. The nation expressed regret that the path of diplomacy was abandoned.
While under considerable pressure from the West to vote against Russia and parallel pressures from Russia for support, India managed to maintain a diplomatic balance. Earlier in January 2022, India abstained from voting on whether to discuss the Ukraine situation and also indicated support for Russia’s security interests. India remained in contact with all sides, urging the parties involved to return to the negotiation table.
India’s Dilemma
India’s strategic ambivalence in this pressing geopolitical turning point is a result of its strategic partnerships with both involved parties. Russia, being India’s largest and most reliable supplier of defence weapons, has boosted India’s defence capabilities with the S-400 air defence system.
Simultaneously, India shares a deep partnership with the United States, characterised by defence contracts, trade and investment, technology, and a significant connection through people-to-people contacts. France is also a vital ally for India in the UN Security Council. As India negotiates China’s moves at the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the nation needs all these alliances.
The Imperative Way Forward for India
India faces the global challenges of Chinese expansionism on its borders and the sudden absence of American military presence in Afghanistan. It needs the support of both the US and Russia to counter Chinese strategic and geo-economic threats in Asia. The QUAD alliance, including America, Japan, Australia, and India, has gained increasing significance in countering Chinese maritime expansionism in the Indian Ocean region.
Within these complexities, India’s foreign policy is constantly facing debates, whether it’s about the gain or loss by maintaining neutrality or the consequences of siding with the West. There is an understanding that the West needs India for its markets and as democratic partners to contain China. However, the inherent tension remains in this position that speaks about rules violations in one part of the world but does not address it in another.
India’s position may require constant calibration as the situation evolves, especially considering the growing casualties in Ukraine.
Last Modified: February 15, 2024