NEW DELHI: Ukraine, which is facing Russian invasion, does not have the full support of India. India will take a neutral stance in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), that convenes on Monday, to pass a resolution calling an end to the war in Ukraine. Earlier, India had stated its neutrality by abstaining from voting in the resolution against Russia in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Along with India, countries namely China and UAE also abstained from voting. Russia had welcomed India’s move. During the time, although several reasons circulated explaining India’s stance, no official explanation was released. But now, India has explained why it abstained from voting in the UNSC resolution.

India is deeply disturbed by recent turn of developments in Ukraine. We urge that all efforts are made for the immediate cessation of violence and hostilities. No solution can ever be arrived at the cost of human lives. It is a matter of regret that the path of diplomacy was given up. We must return to it. India has been in touch with all sides, urging parties concerned to return to the negotiating table. We call for a return to the path of diplomacy, respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. For all these reasons, India has chosen to abstain on this resolution, stated India’s explanation of vote (EOV).

Russia and India have had good relations since years. Recently, both the countries had signed some huge arms deals as well. Reports had earlier suggested that these agreements had prompted India to abstain from the voting. When China invaded the border, Russia took a more empathetic stance towards India than the United States. Russia supported India’s Kashmir policy as well.

Even though India abstained from voting against Russia, it needs to be noted that India did not justify the attacks. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had phoned Ukrainian President and said that India’s position was to end the violence immediately and begin talks.