Saudi Arabia recently hosted a critical summit aimed at finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The meeting brought together representatives from various countries, including the U.S., several European nations, India, Brazil, and other major developing countries. The primary objective of this summit was to reach an agreement on key principles for ending the conflict in Ukraine, which has been escalating since late 2013.
The Historical Context
The roots of the Russia-Ukraine war can be traced back to late 2013 when tensions escalated over a political and trade deal between Ukraine and the European Union. Protests erupted in Kyiv after the pro-Russian then-President, Viktor Yanukovych, suspended talks with the EU. The protests eventually led to his ousting, and in response, Russia invaded Crimea, subsequently annexing it in March 2014. Pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine’s Donetsk and Luhansk regions also declared their independence, establishing the Donetsk People’s Republic. Despite a peace deal brokered by France and Germany in Minsk in 2015, the conflict persisted.
The Challenges Ahead
One of the primary challenges faced in resolving the Ukraine conflict is finding a solution acceptable to all relevant stakeholders. Numerous peace proposals have been put forward, but none has been fully acceptable to both sides. Key questions surrounding the war’s resolution revolve around issues of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the release of prisoners. Finding common ground on these issues is crucial to achieving a peaceful end to the war.
India’s Approach and Participation
India has been committed to promoting dialogue and diplomacy as the only way forward for peace. India has engaged both Russia and Ukraine at the highest levels since the beginning of the conflict. While not explicitly condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine, India has expressed concerns over the violence and humanitarian impact of the war. As a responsible global player, India has provided both humanitarian and economic assistance to Ukraine and its neighboring countries in the Global South, highlighting its commitment to alleviating the crisis’s impact.
India’s participation in the peace conference represents a significant step in its efforts to end the war. By raising its level of representation, India demonstrates a strong sense of purpose and willingness to contribute to finding a peaceful resolution. As the chair of G20, India aims to reach a consensus document at the leaders’ summit in New Delhi next month, emphasizing the country’s active role in the global stage.
Russia’s Demands and Concerns
Russia’s main demand is a guarantee that Ukraine will never join NATO, with a particular focus on ending NATO’s expansion into former Soviet republics, including Ukraine. Russia also seeks the removal of NATO arms from Eastern Europe, which it perceives as a threat to its security. Moreover, Russia wants autonomy for the separatist Russian-speaking territories in Ukraine’s Donbas region, emphasizing that Ukraine must meet its obligations under the Minsk agreements signed in 2015.