New York, 25 February (H.S.): India opted to abstain Tuesday in a UN General Assembly vote on a Ukraine-drafted resolution demanding an immediate, unconditional ceasefire with Russia, aligning with 50 other states including China, Brazil, and notably the United States.

Resolution Passes Amid Deep Divisions

The measure, marking four years since Russia's 2022 invasion, secured 107 yes votes against 12 nays, reaffirming Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and urgent calls for prisoner exchanges, civilian returns (especially children), and aid amid intensified Russian strikes on energy infrastructure.

Strategic Neutrality Reflects Global Realities

Abstainers like Bahrain, Bangladesh, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and UAE signal fractured Western unity—Washington's no-vote underscores Trump-era realpolitik favoring negotiations over mandates. New Delhi's consistent non-alignment prioritizes dialogue, economic ties with Moscow, and multilateral peace processes over punitive measures.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar