On 24 February 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine in a major escalation of the Russo- Ukrainian War, which began in 2014. But Ukrainian forces retook large areas around Kyiv in early April after Russia abandoned its push towards the capital. Multiple air strikes from Russian troops spanning over months have resulted in strong retaliation from Ukraine. In recent development, the city of Kherson has been liberated by Ukrainian troops in a major setback to Russia.

Ukraine’s latest advance comes after weeks of attacks on Russian-controlled bridges and other positions around Kherson. Elsewhere in Ukraine, fighting continues in Donetsk as Russian forces attempt to advance towards Bakhmut. Seven months into Russia’s war in Ukraine, India’s position on it has evolved. It appears today that there is a clear shift away from India’s (initial) subtle support for Russia. Going forward, India’s stand on the Ukraine war will depend on how and when the war ends ultimately. On Saturday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba and both the leaders discussed recent developments in the region, nuclear concerns and ways to end Russia’s war on Ukraine.