Russian President Vladimir Putin seems to be indicating a willingness to pursue a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, marking a potential end to a devastating war with global repercussions. The conflict has not only strained relations between the two nations but has also hindered post-Covid-19 economic recovery worldwide, leading to food shortages and creating tensions among otherwise friendly nations.
According to reports, Putin has conveyed his readiness for a ceasefire through intermediaries in private discussions. The New York Times, citing former senior Russian officials and international sources, disclosed that this isn't the first time Putin has sought a ceasefire; a similar attempt was made a year ago.
Sources reveal that Russian officials express their openness to negotiations for a ceasefire, intending to maintain their current battlefield positions. However, it remains uncertain whether Ukraine will agree to a ceasefire without reclaiming territories captured by Russia. The report also cautions that Putin may change his stance. Meanwhile, in the United States, there is growing support for a ceasefire due to declining taxpayer willingness to fund the conflict and opposition from Republican lawmakers, complicating the Biden-led administration's efforts to secure additional funds from Congress.
Recent legislative attempts in the US to authorize further funding for the war collapsed, and the outcome is pending lawmakers' return after the holidays. Despite President Biden's commitment to stand by Ukraine, without congressional support, the US alone cannot sustain the country against the Russian military. Western nations are exploring options to utilize frozen Russian banks' assets abroad, amounting to billions of dollars, to support Ukraine financially.
President Biden has publicly stated that the decision to end the war rests with Ukraine. A ceasefire would bring relief globally, particularly in New Delhi, where concerns about strained ties with Russia affecting relations with the US would be alleviated. India's purchases of arms, weapons, and oil from Russia have faced scrutiny and threats of sanctions from the US. A ceasefire would eliminate this sticking point, allowing India to maintain its longstanding ties with Russia without severing connections with the US-led alliance.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's firm stance against condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine has shifted perceptions. His declaration that "now is not an era of war" resonated globally, finding support in joint statements from multilateral groups like the G20. The conflict, which coincided with the global economic struggles post-Covid-19, contributed to a worldwide shortage of grains due to Russia's naval blockade in the Black Sea, where Ukraine's exports were stranded for five months.
Ultimately, a ceasefire holds the promise of preventing further loss of life and destruction, offering hope for a resolution to a conflict that has cast a shadow over international relations and economic stability.
(With Agency Inputs)
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