Why is India trying to broker a Russia-Ukraine Black Sea food corridor?

India says it is willing to help broker food corridors through the Black Sea, where attacks on ports have disrupted grain and oilseed exports. The offer comes as Russia and Ukraine prepare for US-mediated talks in Abu Dhabi after a nine-month pause, and reflects India’s growing diplomatic engagement in the war.

India has discussed shipping safety, grain and energy exports, and possible non-attack arrangements with both sides, though it has not published a formal plan. Kyiv calls India’s proposal the broadest, covering both the Black Sea and energy infrastructure; Moscow has rejected partial ceasefires and wants a comprehensive peace agreement. The disruption also affects India directly: five Indian nationals were killed and two went missing in attacks on commercial vessels, while sunflower oil imports fell to 108,837 tonnes in September, their lowest level since April 2022.