Friday, September, 18,2026

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A LOT MORE DESIRED TO END THE WAR

In last two years of Russia - Ukraine war, both sides have suffered huge financial losses and the Ukraine has borne the brunt of war with thousands dead and millions displaced and a huge territorial loss. The European Union NATO membership for Ukraine has become more complicated. In wake of this state in the conflict zone an international peace summit in relation to the Russo-Ukrainian War, formally called the Summit on Peace in Ukraine, was held in Switzerland on 15 - 16 June 2024. The conference followed a series of four earlier international meetings, and was co-hosted by the Swiss president Viola Amherd along with Ukraine. Representatives from 92 nations and 8 international organizations attended the summit, while Russia was not invited. The Joint Communiqué on a Peace Framework became the final statement of the summit and was supported by the majority of participants less some delegates like India and Brazil.

The November 2022 Ukrainian proposal asked for Nuclear safety, Food security for Asian and African countries, Energy security and Restoration of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, Release of all prisoners and the return of Ukrainian children deported to Russia, Restoration of the Russia - Ukraine border to that prior to the 2014 annexation of Crimea and Cessation of hostilities, Prosecution of war crimes in the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Guarantees against future Russian aggression. This was a tall asking by Ukraine with nothing in return, thus the proposal didn’t cut any ice with Russia. However, the Summit for peace in Ukraine immediately followed the 50th G-7 summit in Fasano, Italy with a hope to make some headway in stopping the prolonged conflict in the region. However, on 14 June, the day before the summit was held; Russian President Vladimir Putin presented a proposal agreeing to cease fire and commencement of negotiations if Ukraine withdraws troops from the territories of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia and officially announce the abandonment of plans to join NATO. Putin also demanded Ukraine’s neutral and non-nuclear status and lifting sanctions against Russia. Zelenskyy responded the same day, stating this was not acceptable.

With this as backdrop the discussions took place in the Summit only on three specific topics - nuclear safety and security; freedom of navigation and food safety; and humanitarian aspects including protection of civilians and prisoner exchange. A total of 100 participants, including 57 heads of state or government including the US Vice President turned up for the Summit. Russia was not invited to the Summit and this was criticised by global south countries, Brazil, India and others. China and Pakistan were invited but did not attend. The three main topics of focus for the summit were nuclear safety and security, freedom of navigation and food safety, and humanitarian aspects. The final statement of the summit, titled the “Joint Communiqué on a Peace Framework” and referring to the “ongoing war of the Russian Federation against Ukraine”, was initially signed by 77 states and 05 international European organisations. Brazil, India, South Africa and Saudi Arabia, 14 other participants in the summit did not sign the Communiqué. Major Global South nations cited Russia’s absence or Israel’s presence as reasons for not accepting the communiqué.

THE JOINT COMMUNIQUÉ

Declared support for United Nations General Assembly resolutions and reaffirmed the signees commitment to refraining from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, the principles of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of all states, including Ukraine and the resolution of disputes through peaceful means as principles of international law.

Ukrainian nuclear power plants and installations must operate safely and securely under sovereign control of Ukraine and in line with IAEA principles. Any threat or use of nuclear weapons in the context of the ongoing war against Ukraine is inadmissible.

Attacks on merchant ships in ports and along the entire route, as well as against civilian ports and infrastructure, are unacceptable and that Ukrainian agricultural products should be securely and freely provided to interested third countries.

All prisoners of war must be released and that all children and other Ukrainian civilians who were unlawfully detained, must be returned to Ukraine.

WAY FORWARD

Identify more countries including India with an eye on possible mediators to end the hostilities. The Israel’s counter operations in Gaza to neutralize Hamas has exposed some of the double speak of these countries on civilian deaths.

Address issues like, protection of civilians and prisoner exchange, food security for African and Asian Nations, no use of nuclear weapons etc which are acceptable to both sides and has wider consensus.

India needs to be more pro- active as it has good relations both with Ukraine and Russia and has off late emerged as voice of global south and more acceptable mediator.

Most nations will have to arrive at a similar view on killings of civilians in Ukraine vs Gaza and aiding the conflict with military arms and ammunition for purely defensive reasons.

Work out on restoration of a buffer zone on western flank and play on the factor of reputation of Russia with assurances of non expansion of NATO to threaten Russian interests.

The prolonged war will increase Russian dependence on China and thus China emerges stronger adversary both for the US and India. India must use its clout to bring Russia to table as the US cannot be expected to mediate an issue when it is at odds over the war internally.

The US and Europe will have to convince Kyiv to accept that some Ukrainian land will not be swiftly regained and India, in turn, will have to convince Russia that its broader strategic interests and secure frontiers cannot be attained through military force.

India’s view is that peace in Ukraine requires bringing together all stakeholders and a sincere and practical engagement between the two parties to the conflict. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Putin, this is not an era for war; India needs to do its part to make that statement incontrovertibly true.

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

Col Rajesh Bhukar The writer is a Post Graduate in International Studies, Alumni of Defence Services Staff College, Wellington and College of Combat, Mhow rbhukar1@gmail.com

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Daily Astro

18-09-2026

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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18-09-2026