New York: A report by US-based media giant CNN suggests that India played a pivotal role in averting a potential nuclear crisis in 2022 by persuading Russia against the use of nuclear weapons in war-torn Ukraine. Citing senior US officials, the report sheds light on the diplomatic efforts and behind-the-scenes negotiations that helped diffuse tensions during a critical juncture in the conflict.
The speculation surrounding a possible Russian nuclear strike on Ukraine emerged in late 2022, prompting intense analysis and intelligence gathering in Washington. Amidst concerns over Russia’s potential use of tactical nuclear warheads following Ukraine’s advances, particularly the recapture of Kherson, the US government ramped up preparations for such a scenario.
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The Biden administration perceived the Ukrainian counteroffensive in Kherson, a city initially seized by Russian forces, as a pivotal moment. The prospect of significant Russian troop losses and the potential collapse of Russian lines raised alarms in Washington, fearing a drastic response from Moscow. Western officials also noted Moscow’s narrative of Ukraine preparing a “dirty bomb,” viewing it as a pretext for a nuclear attack.
During this critical period, Russia engaged in discussions with several nations, including the US, expressing concerns about alleged Ukrainian provocations with dirty bombs. In response, the US sought assistance from non-allied nations like India and China to mitigate the escalating crisis. Diplomatic efforts, bolstered by public statements from leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, played a crucial role in preventing further escalation.
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The involvement of key countries, particularly from the Global South, underscored the international community’s collective concern and deterred aggressive actions. Prime Minister Modi’s message to President Putin during the SCO summit, emphasizing the era of peace over war, further reinforced the commitment to resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy.
As tensions simmered down, the collaborative efforts of nations like India, China, and others demonstrated the effectiveness of diplomatic engagement in averting potential catastrophes.
