As Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in New Delhi on Thursday for a two-day state visit—his first since the Ukraine conflict began—several European nations have quietly intensified diplomatic pressure on India.
Envoys and senior officials from multiple European capitals have, over the past few days, “politely” and “discreetly” urged the Indian government to use its influence with Putin to push for an end to the war that has destabilised Europe for nearly three years.
According to sources, representatives from several European countries, including those in eastern Europe who view the conflict as an existential threat, conveyed a unified message:
“Putin listens to India. Prime Minister Modi has repeatedly said that solutions cannot emerge on the battlefield. So please ask him to stop the war.”
Why Europe is Turning to India
Diplomatic observers point out that Europe’s approach marks a striking shift from its stance in the early months of the invasion in 2022, when European leaders demanded that India condemn Russia’s actions and publicly choose a side.
That outreach—including multiple high-level visits to Delhi—failed to alter India’s neutral posture.
Unable to halt Russia through sanctions, military aid to Ukraine, and diplomatic isolation efforts, Europe now sees India as one of the few global actors with access to Putin and the credibility to influence him.
Unlike Western powers, India has preserved strategic communications with both Moscow and Kyiv, giving it leverage no other major country currently possesses.
India’s growing importance to Europe also plays a key role. Several European nations have become vital partners for Indian students, professionals, technology collaborations, and investment flows.
The European Union leaders have also been invited as chief guests for India’s Republic Day celebrations in January 2026, underscoring strengthening ties.
India’s Balancing Act
India has walked a delicate diplomatic line since the conflict began. While refusing to condemn Russia at the United Nations and abstaining from Ukraine-related resolutions, India publicly expressed concern after the Bucha massacre and supported an international probe.
It also intervened quietly in issues like the security of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and the grain export agreement between Moscow and Kyiv.
Prime Minister Modi has spoken to Putin 16 times since the war began—five conversations this year alone.
In September 2022, during the SCO Summit in Uzbekistan, Modi told Putin that “this is not the era of war.” During his visit to Moscow in July 2024, he reiterated that “solutions cannot be found on the battlefield.”
Why Europe Cannot Do It Alone
European nations acknowledge privately that their diplomatic windows with Moscow are nearly closed.
Years of sanctions and confrontation have eroded their influence with the Kremlin.
NATO’s support for Ukraine has turned the conflict into a geopolitical standoff.
For Russia, European governments are no longer seen as neutral negotiators.
India, however, maintains strong defence and energy ties with Russia, continues to purchase discounted oil despite Western objections, and has kept channels of communication open—making it a rare bridge between warring sides.
What Lies Ahead
Putin’s visit includes a private dinner with Modi, a ceremonial banquet, bilateral meetings, and a session with business leaders.
The optics are expected to be grand, and the international community will closely scrutinise the outcomes—particularly discussions on oil, defence cooperation, and peace talks.
European diplomats, while critical of Russia’s actions, say they conveyed their appeal to India “in the right spirit of friendly consultation.”
Some leaders have spoken publicly as well: Poland’s Secretary of State Władysław Teofil Bartoszewski stated in an interview that he hopes Modi will tell Putin:
“Maybe you should sign the peace deal with Ukraine… Putin pays attention to what Prime Minister Modi tells him.”
Whether India can leverage its unique position to influence Moscow remains to be seen, but global attention now turns to New Delhi as a potential mediator in one of the world’s most dangerous conflicts.
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