Will India Serve as a 'Bridge' Between Russia and Ukraine? Jaishankar Meets Ukrainian Foreign Minister in Cyprus

Nicosia: Even as Middle East Conflict rages between USA, Israel and Iran, India is making efforts to find a solution to the was between Russia and Ukraine. India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha held discussions on Wednesday regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, the evolving situation on the battlefield, and efforts to ensure lasting peace.

This meeting between Jaishankar and Andrii Sybiha took place at a time when Ukraine is actively seeking to garner greater support from the global community amid the war with Russia. The meeting was held in Cyprus during the 'Gymnich Forum' - an informal meeting of European Union Foreign Ministers. This meeting comes amidst reports suggesting that more than 500,000 Russian soldiers have been killed in the Ukraine war so far.

What did Jaishankar say after meeting Andrii Sybiha?

Describing it as a "useful meeting" following his interaction with the Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Jaishankar stated that both sides shared their perspectives on the Ukraine conflict and reviewed bilateral cooperation. Sybiha characterized the exchange as "meaningful," noting that the primary focus of the conversation was Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine and recent developments on the battlefield—particularly Ukraine's increasing operational initiative. It is worth noting that prior to this meeting between the Foreign Ministers of the two nations, the Foreign Ministers of India and Russia had also met during the BRICS Foreign Ministers' gathering.

Can India serve as a 'bridge' between Ukraine and Russia?

Referring to Russia's intensified attacks, the Ukrainian Minister asserted that Moscow's attempts to "intimidate our people through terror" have failed to undermine Ukraine's resolve. Sibihá stated, "Our message is clear: we want to end this war and achieve a comprehensive and lasting peace." He further added that he and Jaishankar discussed the need for diplomatic efforts and broad international engagement.

He remarked, "As Europe steps up its responsibilities, we would welcome India's strong voice and suggestions." Both ministers also discussed ways to further deepen bilateral engagement and agreed to remain in regular contact regarding issues of mutual interest.

India has maintained a balanced stance on this conflict, repeatedly calling for dialogue and diplomacy while maintaining its ties with both Moscow and Kyiv. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently reiterated that "this is not an era of war" and has expressed his support for peace efforts. Additionally, Jaishankar met with Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, and discussed the evolving situation in West Asia.

How Many Russian Soldiers Have Been Killed in Ukraine War?

Meanwhile, according to the UK's largest intelligence agency, approximately 500,000 Russian soldiers have been killed since Vladimir Putin launched his illegal invasion of Ukraine. This revelation comes at a time when the conflict has once again intensified. Following a Ukrainian drone attack earlier this week, Russia fired ballistic missiles at the capital. In a speech delivered at Bletchley Park, Anne Keast-Butler, Director of GCHQ, disclosed the heavy losses suffered by the Kremlin since the war began in 2022.

According to the BBC, an official count of Moscow's casualties—compiled by *Mediazona* and a group of volunteers—has confirmed the names of 223,539 soldiers killed while fighting on its side. However, it is believed that the actual death toll is significantly higher than this figure. Military experts estimate that this number may represent only 46 to 65 percent of the total fatalities. 'Institute for the Study of War' The ISW reported that Russia's performance on the battlefield indicates that "the tide of the war is turning in favor of the Ukrainian military - at least for now."