Answer

Introduction

US President Donald Trump’s 28-point Ukraine peace proposal seeks to end decades of US-Russia rivalry by accommodating Russian demands on Crimea and NATO exclusion while restoring Moscow’s economic and strategic role. This initiative reframes confrontation as a chance for pragmatic engagement, reshaping the global order.

Body

Shift from Power Rivalry to Pragmatic Engagement

• Reversing Long-Term Hostility: Signals willingness to move past two-decade US-Russia confrontation.
  Eg: Trump challenges the assumption that rivalry is “permanent”.
• Economic Reintegration: Focus on cooperation rather than sanctions and isolation.
  Eg: Proposal to reintegrate Russia into global economy.
• Institutional Inclusion: Shift from exclusion to engagement within Western blocs.
  Eg: Considering Russia’s return to the G7.
• Compromise-Based Security Solution: Peace terms accommodate adversary demands to stabilise Europe.
  Eg: Accepting Russian positions on Crimea, eastern Ukraine, NATO.
• Strategic Partnership Outlook: From military competition to broad cooperation.
  Eg: Proposal for US-Russia economic partnership.

Implications for India’s Strategic Autonomy

• Balanced Great-Power Relations: Reduced US-Russia tension allows India to strengthen ties with both.
  Eg: No need to choose sides on defence or Ukraine war.
• Flexibility in Multi-Alignment: Space to deepen partnerships simultaneously.
  Eg: India’s energy ties with Moscow and tech cooperation with Washington.
• Stability in Eurasian Geopolitics: De-escalation lowers global security risks affecting India.
  Eg: Reduced NATO-Russia confrontation protects India’s interests.
• Smoother Economic & Defence Cooperation: Lesser sanctions pressure supports defence procurement from Russia.
  Eg: Continued supply for India’s military platforms.
• Diplomatic Leverage Enhancement: India gains more room to mediate and shape multilateral outcomes.
  Eg: Stronger role in global forums if US-Russia ties improve.

Conclusion

As the US-Russia detente gains pace, India must leverage strategic autonomy, deepen ties with both powers, and uphold its multi-alignment doctrine. India’s diplomacy should focus on balancing relations, expanding defence and mutually-beneficial economic cooperation, and promoting a rules-based global order rooted in dialogue and stability.

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