What Did EAM Jaishankar Discuss with Ukrainian FM?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- EAM Jaishankar emphasizes India's commitment to peace.
- Dialogue and diplomacy are vital for resolving the conflict.
- The US has set a deadline for Ukraine's response to the peace proposal.
- President Zelensky warns of challenging choices ahead.
- International collaboration is crucial for stability.
New Delhi, Nov 23 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar shared that he engaged in a phone conversation with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, focusing on the latest updates regarding Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russia.
In a message posted on X, EAM Jaishankar stated, "Had a telecon with FM Andrii Sybiha of Ukraine last evening. Appreciate his briefing on the ongoing developments related to the Ukraine conflict. Reiterated India's support for a prompt resolution to this conflict and the establishment of a lasting peace."
The two diplomats last convened during the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting Outreach Session in Canada earlier this month, where they addressed bilateral cooperation, the journey towards peace in Ukraine, and the current battlefield situation.
India has consistently emphasized that dialogue and diplomacy are the sole viable avenues to attain a fair and enduring settlement.
In a separate development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has indicated that Ukraine is facing "one of the most challenging moments in our history," as the US urges Kyiv to consider a plan perceived by many in Ukraine as favoring Moscow's interests.
In efforts to resolve the conflict, Washington has stipulated that Kyiv must respond to the peace plan draft by November 27. Russian President Vladimir Putin has characterized the draft as a potential "foundation" for a future settlement.
In a grave national address on Friday, Zelensky warned that the nation "might confront a very tough choice: either sacrificing dignity or risking the loss of a vital partner." He committed to uphold the dignity and freedom of Ukrainians and affirmed that Kyiv will continue to collaborate constructively with the United States.
Moreover, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that the Russia-Ukraine peace proposal has been formulated with input from Moscow, also acknowledging that prior suggestions from Kyiv were included.
As he departed for Geneva to discuss the proposed settlement, Rubio asserted that the document was entirely drafted by the United States.
State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott previously mentioned that the peace framework was constructed by Washington while incorporating perspectives from both Russia and Ukraine.
Pigott noted on X that "as Secretary Rubio and the entire Administration has consistently maintained, this plan was authored by the United States, with contributions from both the Russians and Ukrainians."
President Donald Trump has asserted that the US-backed peace proposal aimed at concluding the Russia-Ukraine conflict is not his "final offer" to Kyiv.
His remarks followed a coalition of Ukraine's Western allies expressing concerns that the current draft necessitated significant alterations.
Speaking to reporters outside the White House on Saturday (local time), Trump remarked that if President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declines the proposal, he can "fight his little heart out."
Trump has urged Ukraine to accept the deal by November 27 but clarified that when asked whether it was his ultimate proposal, he said, "No, we wish to achieve peace. One way or another, we will bring it to an end."
Trump also reiterated that the conflict would never have escalated had he been in office in early 2022.