India abstains on UNGA resolution calling for de-escalation, peaceful resolution of Ukraine war

India abstained from voting on a UN General Assembly draft resolution that called for a de-escalation, early cessation of hostilities, and a peaceful resolution to the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The draft resolution, titled 'Advancing a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine', was tabled by Ukraine and its European allies.

The UNGA voted on Monday, with 93 votes in favor, 65 abstentions, and 18 votes against. The resolution urged for a de-escalation of the conflict, the cessation of hostilities, and a peaceful resolution of the war, emphasising the enormous destruction and human suffering, particularly among civilians.

India abstains voting

India was among the 65 countries that chose to abstain from voting. As the resolution was adopted, the UNGA hall erupted in applause, with member states expressing support for the resolution’s adoption.

The resolution, passed on the third anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, was underscored by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called the war a "grave threat" to not only the peace and security of Europe but also to the foundational principles of the United Nations.

In a parallel move, the United States introduced its own resolution titled 'The Path to Peace', which mourned the tragic loss of life throughout the conflict. An amendment proposed by France sought to replace “the Russian Federation-Ukraine conflict” in the US resolution with “the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation.”

India also abstained on the US-tabled resolution, which was adopted with 93 votes in favor, 8 against, and 73 abstentions. US Ambassador Dorothy Shea highlighted that previous UNGA resolutions had demanded the withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukraine, but they had failed to end the war. She emphasised the urgency of bringing a lasting peace between Ukraine and Russia.

The Ukrainian-sponsored resolution reiterated the need for an immediate end to the war and a comprehensive peace agreement that upholds Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. It called for the full implementation of prior UNGA resolutions, including Russia’s immediate, unconditional withdrawal of military forces from Ukraine and the cessation of attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure.

The resolution also emphasised accountability for serious international crimes committed in Ukraine and the need for justice for victims. It also urged for the exchange of prisoners, the release of unlawfully detained persons, and the cessation of attacks on critical energy infrastructure, which pose significant risks.

UN Secretary-General Guterres reinforced the call for de-escalation, stating that after three years of devastating conflict, the need for a just, sustainable peace was more urgent than ever. He appealed for an immediate end to the hostilities, stressing that "enough is enough."

The resolution marked a significant moment as the international community once again pushed for a peaceful solution to the devastating conflict, while India chose to abstain in light of its ongoing diplomatic balancing act.

(With inputs from PTI)