Congress leader Shashi Tharoor acknowledged his earlier criticism of India’s approach during the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, admitting it left him with “an egg on his face.” He noted that the policy adopted by India has positioned the country to play a significant role in fostering lasting peace.
Tharoor, who had previously called for condemnation of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, highlighted that India’s diplomatic stance allowed the Prime Minister to engage with both Ukraine and Russia, illustrating a unique position in international relations.
During an interactive session at the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, Tharoor reflected, “I am still wiping the egg off my face because I was among those who criticized India’s position back in February 2022.” He emphasized that his criticisms were based on the violation of the UN Charter and the principle of sovereignty, asserting that these principles had been overlooked by one party in the conflict.
He remarked on India’s potential to facilitate peace negotiations, stating that the country is uniquely positioned to contribute in ways few others can. Tharoor also pointed out India’s geographic advantage due to its distance from Europe.
While he clarified that he cannot speak for the government as an opposition member, Tharoor expressed that India might be open to the idea of sending peacekeepers if a consensus for peace between Russia and Ukraine emerged.
He added that Russia had explicitly stated a refusal to accept European peacekeepers from NATO countries, suggesting that India might need to look beyond Europe when considering peacekeeping options.
Tharoor emphasized, “Speaking as an Indian parliamentarian, I don’t see significant resistance to the idea of peacekeeping. Unlike the resistance faced in 2003 regarding Iraq, there seems to be a different sentiment toward Ukraine.” He concluded by reaffirming India’s longstanding commitment to global stability through its history of over 49 peacekeeping missions.
