The Russia-Ukraine war has been going on for more than ten months but there is no convincing signal from any party directly or indirectly involved in the war for its ending. Definitely, the possibility of talks-based solution of the crisis, rendered the most sought suitable option, increased several times. Positively saying, Russia, Ukraine and the United States have expressed the intention for talks but it was not given the needed emphasis by any party to resolve the war that has up until now killed thousands in Ukraine, displaced millions from Ukraine and brought economic and other consequences to Ukraine, Russia and other countries around the world since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Consequently, talks-based option did not see any light yet.
Notably, the Ukraine war is the deadliest war since the Second World War because of the engagement of the west against Russia with constant intelligence, arms and logistics supplies. Though the west has not directly declared war against Russia, it is indirectly doing so. But the problem is that when the cold war rivals including Russia and the United States are engaged in a war in such a way and put less emphasis on holding talks, it is undeniably difficult for any other party to play effective roles probably because of two causes. Firstly, there is no other power that can compel Russia and the United States to hold talks. Secondly, all other powers are directly or indirectly involved in their geopolitical rivalry.
But several countries including China, France and Turkey may play some roles in solving the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Notably, China has good strategic relations with Russia and the largest economic relations with the United States, though the United States and China are rendered geo-political and geo-economic rivals. Besides, France, which is one of the powerful parties in NATO’s efforts to help Ukraine fight against invading Russia, had a good relation with Russia even if its relations deteriorated after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Turkey, which is another NATO member but has a good relation with Russia, has already shown its success in the negotiation with several parties including Russia and helped to reach the 2022 grain export deal.
The role of any of the above noted countries may be helpful in not only holding direct negotiation talks between Russia and the United States but also finding acceptable solutions to the war. But the role of Turkey may be more effective in bringing the West especially the United States, Ukraine and Russia to talks with its diplomatic maneuver because it has in the meantime positioned itself as a pro-Ukrainian but not an anti-Russian party and become a more acceptable player in the Ukraine war for negotiations. But the proactive role is very important. Earnest intention to hold talks is also imperative from the parties including the United States, Russia and Ukraine.
Amir M Sayem
Chief Editor
Dhaka Opinion Magazine
