Ukraine Seeks India's Backing for Peace Talks as Donald Trump Assumes Office

On the day Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, Ukraine signaled a strong intention to engage with his administration to address the ongoing conflict with Russia. The war, now entering its third year, continues to devastate Ukraine’s infrastructure and population. In a virtual interaction with journalists in New Delhi, Andriy Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, emphasized the importance of President Trump’s role in facilitating peace and announced plans to initiate consultations with the new U.S. leadership.

Ukraine Eyes India as a Key Partner for Peace

Ukraine has also turned its attention to key global players outside the traditional Western alliance, particularly India, to bolster the peace process. Describing India as "one of the biggest democracies in the world," Yermak highlighted its potential to mediate and influence global conflicts, citing the close relationship between India and Russia. Over the past two years, Ukraine and India have participated in multiple discussions under a Swiss-proposed peace framework. Yermak expressed optimism about India's willingness to support Ukraine’s goals, referencing ongoing dialogue with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval.

Humanitarian Crisis: Displaced Children

The war has triggered a humanitarian crisis, with a disturbing focus on Ukrainian children forcibly displaced or abducted by Russian forces. According to Baroness Helena Kennedy, co-chair of the Bring Kids Back Task Force, an estimated 10,000 to 19,000 children have been taken to Russia under claims of protection. The Yale Humanitarian Research Lab’s report from December 2024 revealed that over 300 children have been placed for adoption in Russia since the war began.

Yermak called for India’s support in addressing this crisis, noting India’s earlier role in evacuating its citizens from Ukraine at the onset of the war. He reiterated the importance of international cooperation, urging Russia to release a comprehensive register of the children it has taken.

Modi’s Visit to Kyiv: A Diplomatic Milestone

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kyiv in August 2024 marked a significant step in India-Ukraine relations. During this visit, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Modi held extensive discussions on the issue of displaced children and the broader peace process. Modi’s visit to a children’s memorial in Kyiv, where he offered a silent prayer and placed a toy as a tribute to the young victims of war, resonated deeply with the Ukrainian leadership.

Yermak remarked on the emotional significance of the visit, highlighting India’s potential to act as a mediator due to its strong diplomatic ties with Russia. He emphasized that Ukraine counts on India’s involvement to bring Ukrainian children back and push for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Trump’s Promises and Russia’s Stance

During his campaign, President Trump pledged to resolve the conflict swiftly, stating, "Before I even arrive at the Oval Office, I will have the horrible war between Russia and Ukraine settled." Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has expressed cautious optimism about Trump’s approach, calling recent signals from the U.S. administration “encouraging.”

In preparation for future talks, Yermak has already met with key members of Trump’s team, including Marco Rubio, the nominee for Secretary of State. These early engagements suggest that Ukraine is eager to leverage Trump’s promises to broker a lasting peace.

A Call for Lasting Peace

Ukraine’s leadership continues to advocate for a comprehensive resolution to the conflict rather than temporary ceasefire agreements. The Swiss peace framework, with India’s involvement, has provided a platform for ongoing dialogue. Meanwhile, the humanitarian aspect of the crisis, particularly the plight of displaced children, has drawn international attention and demands immediate action.

With the Trump administration now in office and India’s growing diplomatic engagement, Kyiv is hopeful that 2025 could mark the beginning of a peaceful chapter in Ukraine’s struggle. By fostering partnerships with global powers, Ukraine aims to not only end the war but also address the deep humanitarian scars it has left behind.