India Intensifies Diplomatic Efforts on Russia-Ukraine Conflict

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said on Sunday that India was actively discussing Black Sea shipping safety, grain and energy exports, and "non-attack possibilities" with Russia and Ukraine as part of efforts to help end the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Speaking at the Munich Leaders' Meeting organised by the Munich Security Conference in New Delhi, Jaishankar stated that India had stepped up its involvement beyond advocacy in recent months, with ongoing conversations with both nations.

The minister's remarks came a day after Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described India's proposal for a possible ceasefire as the "broadest" of four offers received by Kyiv, with other proposals coming from Turkey, Egypt, and the United States. Sybiha said Ukraine was ready to consider a ceasefire covering energy infrastructure and the Black Sea, and that any agreement should address not only combat operations but also attacks on energy facilities and port infrastructure.

Jaishankar reiterated India's consistent position that it wants an end to the conflict through dialogue, diplomacy, and negotiations. "We are trying to be helpful, starting with the Black Sea safety of shipping issue, but going beyond that to cover some immediate concerns which both of them have on grain exports, energy exports, non-attack possibilities," he said, noting that these conversations were ongoing.