USING CRICKET TO CEMENT TIES

are turning towards the longterm prospects of the battle, and a gradual realisation is seeping into many EU partners. Unfortunately, divergent interests among the western coalition will become more pronounced with the passage of time. While eastern Europe may be willing to sustain the war for several more years, Western European states may be wary of extending the conflict for economic costs and a second winter.

So, in my opinion, the possible resolutions that may settle the warring factions could be just four as any negotiated peace looks a long way off with countries selling weapons wish the pot to continue boiling in their own interest.

INVADER SUCCEEDS

If Russia pulls off a massive breakthrough in the East before Ukraine re - stabilizes with western support in a few weeks, or if counteroffensive by the defender fails against unmatched superiority of Russia, a ceasefire may be promulgated to retain what has been occupied and captured. However, seeing the speed of operations, it may not be feasible unless fresh mobilisation is ordered and may be China decides to move in to support its ally.

QUANTUM LEAP

BY UKRAINE

Should Ukraine manage to assemble adequate numbers of western tanks and combat vehicles it hopes to use after the spring season eases, to smash through Russia’s de-

After several failed attempts at cricket diplomacy with Pakistan, India and Australia launched a diplomatic effort at Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad where the final Test of Border-Gavaskar Trophy began on Thursday. After distributing caps to their respective captains Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese watched the proceedings on field while probably discussing ways to strengthen their mutual ties. The Prime Minister later tweeted, “Cricket, a common passion in India and Australia! Glad to be in Ahmedabad with my good friend, PM @ Albo MP to witness parts of the India-Australia Test

After a little over one year of war, Russia controls 125 thousand square kilometers of Ukrainian territory. Yes, one fifth of Ukraine is under Russia’s control. With Donbas almost entirely destroyed, Zelenskyy confirmed in an interview that 20% of our territory is under the control of the occupiers fensive lines and recapture important cities of Donbask and may be, cut through the land linkage of Crimea from Russian mainland, it shall force the aggressor to come to negotiating table to avoid a prolonged war and strengthen its economy. The worry is that this option is purely optimistic and may take many more months of conflict before Moscow allows a dramatic change in its war strategy.

SHATTERED AND DEBILITATED WEST

Putin anticipates he can involve NATO in a long drawn conflict that will wear them out militarily and economically. The cracks are visible in EU unity over Sanctions against Russia within one year. Can the Europe witness another winter without energy is the major question. To top it all, what if Biden

After several failed attempts at cricket diplomacy with Pakistan, India and Australia launched a diplomatic effort at Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad match. I am sure it will be an exciting game.” Anthony tweeted about celebrating 75 years of friendship with India. Level of India’s friendship with Australia is already high. The two countries signed an Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement in 2022. Both are members of QUAD to counter China’s aggressive moves in the South China Sea and are close stra- looses election in 2024? Support to Ukraine may just take a back seat in US policy. As it is, continued European war, in my thinking, is not a favourable issue in presidential elections.

NEW LEADERSHIP

Wars are unpredictable. It is often seen that failure to achieve pre meditated victory often asks for change in leadership. Ukraine may soon reach there if west’s support in supplying war equipment dilutes or fails, or the country under Zelenskyy does not achieve a break through against the attacker.

As for Russia, the same may not be true. Though, Putin is probably in the weakest position he has ever faced, but still his grip on the Kremlin and the countrymen remains rather strong. Suppose, as a wild thought, if Putin were to be ousted, it is hard to believe that his successor would change the policy on Ukraine.

It is visible that disappointment against NATO policies on Ukraine is growing in Europe as the war drags on. Many EU leaders are advocating shunning ties with US & Britain and moving closer to Moscow because of geographical contiguity. Even US appears concerned about the growing costs and the risks to its economy posed by prolonged conflict which are now outweighing the benefits. Sooner than later, the war is likely to end in the favour of the Russians.

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL tegic partners. Albanese’s visit to INS Vikrant is proof. Both the countries are keen on cooperating in the field of renewable energy. For India, Australia is important as it backs its candidature in the UN Security Council. India is Australia’s ninth largest trading partner. During his current visit the Australian Prime Minister, so also India, will seek to strengthen ties.

In Anthony Albanese’s case the cricket diplomacy can only further cement their friendship. It is unlike India’s diplomatic overtures to Pakistan which could not agree on peaceful relations. So much so, cricketing ties between two neighbours lie broken as Pakistan cannot eschew violence against India.

The ED’s move to Telangana does not augur well for KCR, his daughter and their national aspirations. As has been the fate of several opposition leaders Kavitha’s arrest can’t be ruled out. With Telangana elections due later this year her arrest will not only be a setback for BRS but will also give the BJP, which is desperate to grab power in the southern state, an upper hand.

The BJP which is in power in Karnataka is expecting another electoral victory this year. A win in Telangana will make it easier for the party to further expand its footprints in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Spiritual Speak

He who walks in the eightfold noble path with unswerving determination is sure to reach Nirvana. Buddha

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Sh Satish Kaushik was an acclaimed actor & director who scripted some of the most memorable cinematic works of our time. He tickled fans with humour & his art will live on through his filmography. My condolences on his demise to his family & well wishers.