Ajit Doval to Visit Moscow as PM Modi Seeks to Broker Peace Between Russia and Ukraine
India’s role as a potential mediator in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict is gaining global attention, with National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval heading to Moscow this week to engage in critical discussions aimed at resolving the crisis. Doval's visit follows the diplomatic groundwork laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has taken personal initiative in mediating between Russia and Ukraine over the past months.
PM Modi's approach has been a delicate balancing act. He visited both Moscow and Kyiv in July and August, respectively, holding meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. His efforts underscore India’s unique position—trusted by both Russia and Ukraine—as a possible mediator in the conflict. During these trips, Modi underscored the importance of diplomacy and peaceful dialogue, aligning with India’s longstanding position of advocating for non-violent resolutions to global conflicts.
After his visit to Ukraine, Modi made a follow-up phone call to Putin on August 27. According to a statement from the Russian Embassy, Modi briefed Putin about his discussions with Zelensky and reaffirmed India’s dedication to bringing a political and diplomatic solution to the conflict. It was during this call that the idea of sending NSA Ajit Doval to Moscow was discussed and agreed upon.
The upcoming Moscow visit is part of a broader effort by India to play a key role in facilitating peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. Doval's trip coincides with his participation in the BRICS NSA meeting, where top security officials from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, along with new BRICS members including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Iran, will convene ahead of the annual BRICS Summit in Kazan.
While the official agenda includes BRICS security matters, sources indicate that Doval's primary focus in Moscow will be on the Ukraine conflict. There are expectations that bilateral talks will also take place, notably with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi. The involvement of multiple global powers like China and Brazil adds another layer to the complexity of the negotiations. However, India remains in a unique position, being seen as a neutral player with strong relationships with both Russia and the West.
Doval's visit also comes on the heels of international recognition of India's potential role as a mediator. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, during a meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky at the Ambrosetti Forum in Italy, noted that countries like India and China could play pivotal roles in resolving the Ukraine conflict. This sentiment was echoed by President Putin, who, during the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, acknowledged the efforts of countries like India in offering a "helping hand" toward peace.
India's diplomatic strategy in this conflict has been clear: maintain good relations with both Russia and Ukraine, while advocating for peace through dialogue. Modi’s outreach, coupled with Doval’s forthcoming Moscow visit, reflects India's deep commitment to finding a peaceful resolution. As world leaders watch closely, India's role in the peace talks could significantly shape the future trajectory of the conflict in Ukraine.
