How India can balance ties with Russia and Ukraine

Balancing ties with both Russia and Ukraine amid a complex and evolving geopolitical conflict is a significant challenge for India. However, India has adopted a strategic autonomy approach guided by national interest, diplomacy, and a focus on global peace and multipolarity.

Here’s how India can balance ties with Russia and Ukraine:

1. Diplomatic Tightrope Walking

• Neutral, Not Passive: India emphasizes that it is not neutral, but on the side of peace. It avoids taking sides while promoting dialogue.
• Consistent Messaging: India consistently calls for diplomacy, de-escalation, and respect for sovereignty, aligning with international law without directly naming or condemning Russia.

2. Strategic Ties with Russia

• Defence Dependency: Over 60% of India’s defence equipment is of Russian origin. Russia is also a key partner in nuclear energy and space.
• Energy Security: India imports discounted Russian oil to meet domestic needs, crucial during global inflation.
• Geopolitical Alignment: Russia supports India’s claim for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council and backs India on Kashmir in global forums.

➤ India’s Actions:

• Continued strategic cooperation while avoiding provocative statements or votes against Russia in the UN.
• Participated in BRICS, SCO, and other forums with Russia.

3. Building Bridges with Ukraine

• Humanitarian Assistance: India has provided aid including medical supplies (e.g., BHISHM Cubes) and supported community development projects.
• Educational Support: With ~18,000 Indian students studying in Ukraine, India is involved in restoring education linkages.
• Trade Engagement: Focus on rebuilding trade relations—particularly in pharmaceuticals and agriculture (sunflower oil, food security).

➤ India’s Actions:

• PM Modi’s 2024 visit to Ukraine signals diplomatic outreach and empathy without affecting ties with Russia.
• Exploring reconstruction opportunities in Ukraine, giving India economic and goodwill leverage.

4. Championing the Global South

• India presents itself as a voice of the Global South, focusing on the impact of war on food, energy, and inflation in developing countries.
• This lets India frame its position in a humanitarian light rather than a geopolitical alignment.

5. Multilateral Engagement and Mediation

• India promotes dialogue within the UN, G20, and other multilateral platforms.
• Its role as a potential mediator (backed by Mexico, the UN, and Pope Francis) gives it diplomatic space to maintain balanced relations.

6. Long-Term Strategy

• Diversifying Defence: India is slowly moving to reduce over-dependence on Russian weapons through Make in India and diversification (Israel, US, France).
• Strategic Autonomy: India’s foreign policy prioritizes multipolarity, allowing it to deal with both the West and Russia without choosing sides.

Conclusion

India’s ability to balance ties with both Russia and Ukraine lies in:

• Practicing strategic autonomy;
• Prioritizing peace, dialogue, and humanitarianism;
• Maintaining economic and defence interests;
• Avoiding zero-sum alliances.

This nuanced diplomacy aligns with India’s global aspirations—especially as it seeks a greater role in global governance and a permanent seat at the UNSC.