Why Won't India Pick a Side? Understanding Its Role in Ukraine

 

Understanding India's Role in the Ukrainian Crisis

India's Position and Political Importance

• India's major news outlet, CNN, traditionally tends to publish predominantly positive news about India.
• However, recent reports suggest a shift in tone regarding India's stance on international affairs.
• Prime Minister Modi's intervention in the Ukrainian crisis prompted Russia to rethink its plans of using nuclear weapons.
• India's position in the geopolitical order and its importance have been highlighted.
• Criticism has been directed towards India for not doing enough for Ukraine, contrasting with Western media's praise for India's intervention in preventing a nuclear catastrophe.

US Preparedness and Strategic Moves

• CNN correspondents report on the US's readiness for potential Russian nuclear threats in Ukraine.
• Former US soldiers, unofficially present in Ukraine, were being withdrawn, indicating strategic planning.
• The US had prepared plans to address the long-term medical and humanitarian consequences of a potential nuclear attack.

Russia's Shift in Strategy

• The period from 2022 to 2023 saw Russia facing significant challenges, notably due to the Israel-Hamas conflict diverting US attention and resources away from Ukraine.
• Russia faced internal pressure due to conflicts involving groups like the Wagner Group in Ukraine.
• There were anticipations of Russia resorting to its nuclear program and tactical nuclear bombings in Ukraine.

October 2022: Russian Warnings and Diplomatic Moves

• In October 2022, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu made consecutive phone calls to the US, UK, France, and Turkey, warning of a possible attack on Kyiv.
• These warnings underscored the potential for a dire situation if Russia's concerns were confirmed.

Conclusion

India's role in the Ukrainian crisis highlights the complexities of global geopolitics. While India's actions have drawn both praise and criticism, they underscore the country's emerging significance in international affairs. As tensions continue to simmer between Russia and Ukraine, the preparedness of global powers like the US becomes crucial in averting potential disasters. Russia's shifting strategies and diplomatic warnings emphasize the delicate balance of power and the need for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation in the region