INVC NEWS
Washington : India is facing a crucial decision regarding the invitation of Russian President Putin to the upcoming G-20 summit. As reported by Vice of America, Prime Minister Modi is expected to discuss this matter during his meeting with President Biden. With India’s growing proximity to the United States and its longstanding friendship with Russia, the invitation list for the summit holds significant diplomatic implications. However, tensions between the two superpowers, particularly concerning the Ukraine war, have complicated the situation.
The G-20 Guest List Conundrum: India, as the host of the G-20 summit, must finalize the guest list, taking into account its evolving relationships with various nations. While India’s alliance with the United States has been strengthening, Russia has been a steadfast friend for decades. Both countries are G-20 members, but their conflicting stances on the Ukraine war have created a war-like situation between them.
Tensions between America and Russia: The United States has extended substantial military and financial support, amounting to billions of dollars, to Ukraine. This move has infuriated Russia and escalated tensions between the two superpowers. The ongoing dispute has even led to accusations of war crimes against President Putin, with the specter of potential arrest looming over him. Consequently, America is attempting to isolate Putin globally, making him an untouchable figure.
International Pressure: The possibility of inviting Putin to India poses a risk of angering the United States. Previously, in anticipation of a boycott by G7 countries, Indonesia, as the former G-20 President, had requested Russia to send Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov instead of Putin. In a bid to appease all parties involved, Indonesia had even managed to arrange a virtual meeting between Ukraine’s President Zelensky and Russia. However, Ukraine now insists on Zelensky’s physical presence at the G-20 summit, a request India has declined.
Russia’s Watchful Eye: India’s decision on inviting Putin holds significant weight, as it could potentially strain its relationship with Russia. Earlier, India chose to conduct the virtual SCO summit, which was meant to host President Putin in India. This decision drew discontent from several SCO countries. Consequently, Russia is closely monitoring the upcoming summit between Biden and Modi, recognizing its implications on their bilateral ties.
Conclusion: India finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with the dilemma of inviting Russian President Putin to the G-20 summit amidst mounting tensions with the United States. This decision has far-reaching consequences for India’s diplomatic relationships and its position as the summit’s host. Balancing the interests of both the United States and Russia while navigating the complexities of the Ukraine war presents a formidable challenge for Prime Minister Modi. The world watches attentively as India treads cautiously in its quest for a delicate diplomatic equilibrium.
