India pushes ceasefire talks with Russia and Ukraine

India is in substantive discussions with both Russia and Ukraine regarding a ceasefire proposal, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed on Wednesday. The talks focus on establishing conditions for a sustainable peace settlement while addressing critical economic and humanitarian concerns in the region.

Key elements of New Delhi's initiative include ensuring the safety of merchant shipping corridors in the Black Sea and guaranteeing unobstructed movement of grain and energy resources. These issues have assumed heightened importance given global food and fuel security concerns stemming from the ongoing conflict.

Both Moscow and Kyiv have expressed appreciation for India's diplomatic efforts to broker peace, according to the MEA statement. New Delhi's mediation reflects its traditional non-aligned position and its commitment to facilitating dialogue between conflicting parties.

India has maintained a balanced stance throughout the conflict, calling for dialogue and de-escalation while emphasising the need to address legitimate security concerns of all parties involved. The country's engagement underscores its role as a bridge-builder in international affairs and its interest in global stability and economic normalcy.