Topic: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests
Q4. “Unequal peace settlements risk legitimising aggression and weakening international norms”. Analyse how this applies to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. How should India balance non-alignment with adherence to sovereignty principles?
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question
The 2025 Istanbul peace talks and Russia’s demand for territorial concessions bring into focus the risks of legitimising aggression, challenging India’s stance on sovereignty and non-alignment.Key Demand of the question
The question requires analysis of how unequal peace deals weaken international law, using the Russia-Ukraine case, and a balanced evaluation of India’s position between strategic neutrality and upholding sovereignty norms.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly mention how coercive peace undermines rule-based order and poses global precedents.Body
- Show how unequal peace agreements erode international legal norms and institutional credibility.
- Use the Russia-Ukraine case to illustrate the dangers of rewarding territorial aggression and coercive diplomacy.
- Suggest India’s balanced approach: support for sovereignty, multilateral engagement, and cautious neutrality.
Conclusion
Conclude with how India’s credibility as a responsible power lies in defending principles without compromising strategic autonomy.
