Putin Stays in Constant Contact with India, China, and Brazil Over Ukraine Conflict, Hails Efforts for Peace

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently acknowledged the ongoing diplomatic efforts by India, China, and Brazil regarding the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing that he remains in regular contact with these nations to find a resolution. Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok, Putin's comments were notable as they underscored the important role these emerging global powers could play in the peace process.

During his remarks, Putin expressed his respect for India, China, and Brazil, stating that their efforts to resolve the Ukraine crisis are "sincere." His acknowledgment of these nations shows how Russia views them as crucial diplomatic partners. "We respect our friends and partners, who, I believe, sincerely seek to resolve all issues surrounding this conflict, primarily China, Brazil, and India. I constantly keep in touch with our colleagues on this issue," Putin said, as reported by Russia's state-owned TASS news agency. 

India, in particular, stands out in Putin's interactions due to its unique geopolitical position. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has maintained a delicate balance between Russia and Ukraine while managing India’s relationships with Western nations like the U.S. Modi’s high-profile visit to Ukraine in August 2024, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, signaled India’s desire to mediate and facilitate peace talks. During this visit, Modi reiterated India's commitment to a peaceful solution, stating that both Ukraine and Russia need to engage in dialogue to end the war swiftly. Modi even offered India’s assistance in these efforts, positioning the country as a potential mediator.

Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov also touched upon India’s potential role in mediation. Speaking to the Russian daily *Izvestia*, Peskov highlighted the "highly constructive, even friendly relations" between Putin and Modi, noting that India's unique position—where Modi can directly communicate with both Putin and Zelenskyy—could be leveraged to push for peace. According to Peskov, India has an opportunity to use its global influence to encourage both sides, particularly the U.S. and Ukraine, to show the political will needed for negotiations. 

However, despite India’s outreach and Putin’s praise of these diplomatic efforts, the Kremlin remains skeptical about the immediate prospects for peace. Peskov clarified that there are currently no concrete plans for Modi to act as a formal mediator, citing the lack of any clear preconditions for negotiations. "At this time, they can hardly exist, as we do not see any preconditions for talks for now," he said, reflecting the Kremlin's view that, for the time being, the conflict remains too entrenched for meaningful dialogue.

While Russia acknowledges India's role, the conflict itself is still far from a resolution. India, along with China and Brazil, continues to advocate for a peaceful settlement, but the path to achieving that remains fraught with challenges. Putin's consistent dialogue with these countries underscores the complex geopolitical dimensions of the war, where the involvement of non-Western powers like India may become increasingly important in determining the future course of the conflict.

For now, though, the world watches as diplomatic efforts continue, with Russia keeping its communication channels open with key partners like India in the hope of eventually finding a peaceful way forward.