NSA Ajit Doval is scheduled to travel to Moscow on September 10-11 to explore avenues for a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Recently, Russia has indicated its interest in having India play a crucial role in ending the war, a sentiment that Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed to President Vladimir Putin during their July meeting.
National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval is set to visit Moscow on September 10-11 to seek a peaceful resolution to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
This visit marks a significant step in India’s diplomatic efforts to mediate the protracted war, which has been raging for over two-and-a-half years. Doval’s trip will include participation in the BRICS NSA meeting and critical discussions aimed at ending the conflict. European Union officials have shown interest in having India take a leading role in these peace efforts.
BRICS NSA-Level Discussions
During his visit, Doval will not only represent India at the BRICS NSA-level talks but is also anticipated to hold discussions with Chinese NSA Wang Yi. Russia has recently voiced its desire for India to play a significant role in resolving the war. This sentiment was echoed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his July meeting with President Vladimir Putin.
Although India maintains substantial strategic interests with Russia, including oil and defense agreements, the government is cautious about taking on a direct mediation role. Nonetheless, both Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Putin have urged Modi to work towards a peaceful resolution.
A Message for Peace
Government sources indicate that Doval will carry a special message to Moscow, underscoring India’s commitment to mediating an end to the conflict, which has claimed numerous lives. Prime Minister Modi has been actively engaged in peace initiatives, having visited Ukraine and Russia in recent months to advocate for the end of hostilities. Modi’s message has consistently been that “this is not an era for war.”
During his visit to Kyiv in August, Modi met with President Volodymyr Zelensky and reaffirmed India’s dedication to peace. He also spoke with President Putin by phone on August 27 to discuss India’s potential role in fostering a lasting peace in Ukraine.
With previous negotiations, such as those held in Istanbul, failing to make progress and the situation remaining dire, Doval’s upcoming talks in Moscow are being closely watched for any signs of breakthrough towards a resolution.
