The redundant rancour.

The year 1991 saw the disintegration of erstwhile USSR, with which came the end of prolonged cold war which had begun post second world war. USSR, which used to comprise the part of modern day Russia along with some East European countries, was erected in a manner to counter the hegemony of USA imbued with capitalist ideology. While some of the former members of USSR joined European Union, Ukraine which also used to be a part of USSR, has shown some inclination in joining NATO – the military alliance formed in the cold war era to back western bloc.

That Russia and USA have always been at loggerheads which have always resulted in escalation of the tensions, affecting entire world. If Ukraine joins NATO, then USA forces would station themselves in Ukraine to show its power over Russia and making Black Sea inaccessible to it that is the reason why Moscow forbids Ukraine from being a member of NATO. In order to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO, Russia has positioned its armed forces in close proximity to the international border of Ukraine.

In a manner of disturbing the existing peace, as if the deployment of army on the boundary was not enough, Russian armed forces penetrated into the boundary of Ukraine taking control over two cities i.e. Donetsk and Luhansk, further exacerbating the issue. The world has neared on the brink of unaffordable third world war, thanks to Russian invasion. As the matter is escalating with each passing day, the need of international community to take tough stance on Russia has turned to be the most effective function.

History informs us about the close cultural, political, historical and linguistic ties between Russia and Ukraine. About 30% Ukrainians speak Russian language which shows the interlaced association between the two. Since Russia is making rapid headways by launching attacks and overrunning the parts of Ukraine. Its capital Kyiv seems to be at spitting distance from Russian outreach, if latest developments are to be believed.

Given the status of Indian PM which he enjoys worldwide, Ukrainian ambassador to India, urged him to intervene into the issues and try to chalk out a solution to end this bloodshed. Amid all this happenings, India’s role becomes substantive, provided its amicable character. Yesterday late night when India abstained from voting on a resolution moved by USA in the UN Security Council in a bid to counter Russia, several eyebrows were raised, suspecting India’s stance on the issue.

India seems to be doing tightrope walk as its relationship in every aspect favors its cause. Ukraine is one of the most favorite destinations for the Indian students who opt for MBBS courses. Apart from this, India exports sunflower oil, inorganic chemicals, iron and steel, plastics, chemicals, etc. India is Ukraine's largest export destination in the Asia Pacific and the fifth largest overall export destination. Major exports from India to Ukraine include pharmaceutical products, reactors/boiler machinery, etc.

If we talk about the major exports to Russia from India, the list would comprise of mobile phones and pharmaceuticals while imports from Russia incorporate crude oil, coal, and diamonds. India’s defense sector is relied heavily upon major exports from Russia which constitute fighter jets and tanks, such as, MIG-21, MIG-23, MIG-27, Sukhoi-30, T-72 and T-90 tanks, to name a few. Keeping all these factors, India opts for picking its way before making any decision. India’s diplomatic approach is justified bearing Russia’s assistance to India in latter’s difficult times, in mind.

At the same time, the vows made earlier by USA and several European countries of militarily and financially aiding Ukraine if Russia invades it, only to be turned out hollow later, has exposed their character. The recent statement by USA president that its forces would not land in Ukraine has made the exposure only more perspicuous. 

Concomitantly, when the Russian premier seems not to be in a mood to pay heed towards the havoc being wreaked upon Ukrainians, the international community should cluster in conjunction with each other to condition on a solution, backed with intelligence and insightfulness, acceptable to all, to end the war as soon as possible.