We Encourage India to Use Its Russia Ties to Urge Putin to End the War: US

The United States has recently underscored India's pivotal partnership with both Russia and itself, urging India to leverage its longstanding relationship with Russia to advocate for peace in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. 

This call from the US State Department comes in the wake of India's trade discussions with Russia amid the escalating war in Ukraine.

Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the US State Department, emphasized India's historical ties with Russia and urged India to utilize this unique position to persuade Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt what the US views as an unlawful war and seek a just and lasting resolution to the conflict. 

Miller highlighted the importance of respecting Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty, in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter.

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Moscow, India and Russia aimed to boost bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030, utilizing national currencies to circumvent Western sanctions. 

This summit marked their first meeting since the conflict in Ukraine began two years ago, underscoring the strategic nature of their relationship in a challenging geopolitical landscape.

The joint statement issued by India and Russia acknowledged the need for a peaceful resolution to the "conflict around Ukraine," reflecting differing perspectives on the nature of the conflict. 

The statement also expressed appreciation for mediation efforts aimed at resolving the crisis through diplomatic channels.

The US continues to regard India as an important partner, particularly concerning its interactions with Russia. 

Encouraging India to advocate for peace underscores the complexities of global diplomacy in managing conflicts that extend beyond regional boundaries.

India's stance in this matter will likely influence its diplomatic standing with both the US and Russia, navigating a delicate balance between strategic alliances and international principles of peace and sovereignty.

As tensions persist and global stakeholders weigh in, India's role in advocating for peace in Ukraine through its bilateral engagements with Russia remains pivotal, shaping the trajectory of international relations in the region.