India, China & Brazil Could Mediate Russia-Ukraine Talks, Putin Says

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that China, India and Brazil could act as mediators in potential peace talks over Ukraine.

Putin said a preliminary agreement reached between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators in the first weeks of the war at talks in Istanbul, which was never implemented, could serve as the basis for talks.

This comes after PM Narendra Modi’s Russia visit in July and subsequently, India’s PM also went to Ukraine in August which raises the chances of the role of New Delhi as a mediator in the ongoing war.

India has maintained a neutral stance on the conflict, neither condemning Russia outright nor fully supporting Ukraine. It has consistently abstained from UN votes condemning Russia's actions, emphasising the importance of dialogue and diplomacy.

India has also deep historical and strategic ties with Russia, particularly in the defence and energy sectors. Russia remains one of India's major suppliers of military equipment, which influences its careful diplomatic positioning.

At the same time, India has strengthened its ties with Western nations, including the US and Europe. India supports the principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty, aligning with Western concerns, though without jeopardising its relationship with Russia.