Slovak President Peter Pellegrini: India Could Play Crucial Role in Peace Talks for Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Slovak President Peter Pellegrini has highlighted India’s potential role in future peace negotiations for the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, emphasizing that resolution can only be achieved with the involvement of major global powers such as India, China, and the United States. Speaking during the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, Pellegrini noted the significance of India’s participation, given Slovakia’s proximity to the conflict, sharing a border with Ukraine.

“I believe peace in Ukraine can only be brokered with the help of major global players like India, China, and the U.S. It’s impossible to hold peace talks without involving Russia, but India, in particular, could play a key role in future negotiations,” Pellegrini said.

He also expressed his approval of the adoption of the ‘Compact for the Future,’ pointing out that the United Nations has struggled to manage the 56 conflicts currently ongoing around the world. Despite these challenges, the compact represents a signal that multilateralism and the UN still hold relevance.

As a neighbor of Ukraine, Slovakia has consistently supported peace negotiations. Pellegrini reiterated that Slovakia advocates for dialogue to end the violence. “We are very close to the war, and from the outset, Slovakia has been a strong supporter of peace talks. We need to do everything we can to bring parties to the table and stop the killing,” he added.

Pellegrini stressed the urgency of action, stating that ongoing conflict, whether in Ukraine or elsewhere, results in continuous loss of life. “Peace negotiations are essential, and we must move beyond discussions and take concrete steps to end the bloodshed,” he concluded.