As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its fifth year, India has put forward a three-point ceasefire proposal aimed at bringing an end to the prolonged and bloody conflict. The peace initiative was formally handed over to Ukrainian authorities during Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Kyiv last month, Indian news outlet NDTV reported on Wednesday.
According to diplomatic sources, New Delhi’s proposal centers on three key measures: an immediate halt to attacks on energy facilities, power-generation plants and other critical infrastructure; ensuring the uninterrupted movement of grain and energy supplies to international markets through strategic Black Sea ports; and a complete cessation of attacks on commercial vessels operating along the vital maritime route.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has acknowledged receiving India’s proposal. Describing the Indian initiative as the most comprehensive and practical among four international proposals put forward to help end the conflict, Sybiha said similar initiatives had also come from Türkiye, Egypt and the United States.
He stressed, however, that any lasting agreement must go beyond simply stopping military operations. Protecting energy infrastructure and ensuring the security of the Black Sea would also be essential elements of a durable settlement, he said.
Moscow, meanwhile, has also viewed India’s diplomatic engagement positively. Russian President Vladimir Putin previously praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s approach to finding a workable understanding to end the war, describing his ideas as highly commendable. Putin has also lauded Modi for pursuing peace while maintaining an independent and neutral position.
The diplomatic efforts come amid growing international concern over incidents linked to the conflict, including a recent fire aboard an oil tanker carrying 23 Indian crew members following a Ukrainian drone attack.
Analysts say India’s proposal is more comprehensive than those put forward by other countries because it combines several critical dimensions of the conflict. Türkiye and Egypt had focused primarily on the safety of commercial vessels and the uninterrupted export of grain, while the U.S. proposal was largely centered on securing a ceasefire around energy infrastructure.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Jaishankar made clear that India’s role was not limited to verbal appeals for peace. He said New Delhi was actively engaged in constructive dialogue with both sides of the conflict.
Despite maintaining close defence ties with Moscow, India has sought to preserve an independent position throughout the crisis, while continuing to advocate dialogue and a negotiated path toward peace.
Source: NDTV