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Highlights – European leaders have now placed their trust in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to end the Russia-Ukraine war. Leaders of France, Germany and the European Union have started establishing contacts with India since the first week of this September. Disappointed with Trump for a solution, Europe is now placing its trust in Prime Minister Modi.
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Europe and America have failed in their efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war. From France to Germany and the European Union, all eyes are now on one person. He is Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Europe now believes that if anyone can maintain balance, it is Indian Prime Minister Modi. Europe is now disappointed with America and Donald Trump.
French Efforts – Macron Calls Modi
French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to Prime Minister Modi over the phone. Both leaders shared views on the Russia-Ukraine crisis and agreed on efforts to restore peace. Interestingly, the discussion was not just about war, but also about strengthening cooperation in defense, science, technology and the Indo-Pacific strategy. Prime Minister Modi also invited Macron to attend the AI Impact Summit to be held in India next year. Europe got a clear message that India is not just talking about war, but wants to enhance partnership in future technologies and security systems.
The European Union trusts Modi
A few days ago, Prime Minister Modi had a joint call with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The call clearly shows that Europe now sees India as a key strategic partner. The talks did not only discuss the Ukraine war, but also the early conclusion of the India-EU FTA (Free Trade Agreement). India has made it clear that it is a supporter of peace, but that trade and technology partnerships will also be a priority.
Germany is also attracted to India
German Foreign Minister Johann Weidepühl recently visited India. After meeting Prime Minister Modi, he made it clear that after completing 25 years of the India-Germany strategic partnership, cooperation will be further deepened. Germany now sees India as a crucial partner in every area, be it trade, technology, stability or defence. Germany has also indicated that India’s role in resolving the conflict is important and its Chancellor may visit India soon in a bid to meet Modi.
India is talking to both Russia and Ukraine
The biggest message of Modi’s diplomacy is that he is not talking to just Europe or America. Rather, he is in direct contact with both Russia and Ukraine. Modi and Putin met in Tianjin during the SCO summit. Modi clearly said that the war must end immediately and a lasting solution must be found. On the other hand, Modi also spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky over the phone. He assured Ukraine that India will support it in every effort for peace.
Why the illusions about Trump?
The rift in relations between Europe and America is clearly visible. Trump has been constantly threatening India with tariffs and oil purchases. He has also said that ‘India is aligning itself with Russia and China’. But Europe has distanced itself from this language and is now betting on Modi’s diplomacy. Europe knows that India believes in dialogue with Russia, respectful relations with Ukraine and partnership with the West. No one else has this balance. Now Trump’s tone also seems to be changing.
Why does Europe expect India?
A reliable mediator: India continues to hold talks with both sides.
Balanced policy: Energy purchases from Russia continue and technology partnerships with the West continue.
Rising power: Today, India is making its presence felt in every forum, be it G20, SCO, BRICS or Quad.
Trump’s instability: America’s rhetoric and U-turn attitude have eroded Europe’s trust.
Today, the situation is such that be it the President of France, the Foreign Minister of Germany or the top leadership of the European Union, the first name on everyone’s list of talks is Prime Minister Modi. This is a victory for Indian diplomacy. Now the question is whether Modi’s efforts can stop the war? The answer is not easy, but it is certain that Europe’s hopes are now entirely pinned on Delhi.
