Tharoor supports India's neutral Russia-Ukraine stance now

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has admitted that his past criticism of India's neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine war has left him feeling embarrassed. Speaking at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, he expressed regret for opposing India's approach back in February 2022. Tharoor noted that India's balanced policy has allowed Prime Minister Narendra Modi to engage with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He highlighted that this unique position has made India a key player in promoting peace. Initially, Tharoor criticized India's position because he felt it violated Ukraine's sovereignty and the UN Charter. Three years later, he acknowledged that he was mistaken, saying, "it does look like I am the one with the egg on my face." He also mentioned that India might consider sending peacekeepers if a peace settlement is reached between Russia and Ukraine. Tharoor pointed out that non-European forces could be more viable since Russia has rejected NATO peacekeepers. He noted that there likely wouldn’t be strong opposition in India regarding this idea, referencing the country’s history with peacekeeping missions. India has participated in over 49 UN peacekeeping missions, demonstrating its commitment to global stability. Tharoor contrasted this with the rejection of sending troops to Iraq in 2003, suggesting a different outcome for Ukraine.