📷 Image Credits: Times Now
The recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russia has sparked concerns and raised eyebrows, particularly from US Ambassador Eric Garcetti. Garcetti expressed his apprehensions during a conclave focused on the India-US defence partnership. He emphasized that strategic autonomy cannot be maintained during times of conflict and that principles should be upheld when other countries violate the rules-based order or sovereign borders.
Garcetti’s remarks come in the backdrop of ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the subsequent visit of PM Modi to Russia. The US has been vocal about its concerns regarding India’s relationship with Russia and urged New Delhi to leverage its ties with Moscow to influence a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Without directly mentioning Modi’s visit or the war in Ukraine, Garcetti criticized the outcomes of the India-Russia Summit and the stand taken by India towards the conflict.
During his speech, Garcetti made comparisons between Russia’s actions in Ukraine and the military standoff between India and China. He stressed the importance of mutual trust and cooperation, especially during crisis moments. Garcetti highlighted the joint efforts of India and the US in developing weapons, conducting military exercises, and fostering exchanges between military leadership as a means to ensure peace and stability in the region.
Acknowledging India’s reliance on Russia for spare parts for legacy military equipment, Garcetti suggested that India will have to make a choice between Russia and the US for its long-term military requirements. He noted the significant growth in defence equipment supply from the US to India over the years.
The US envoy’s comments have raised questions about the future direction of India’s foreign policy and its strategic partnerships. As the world grapples with conflicts and geopolitical tensions, the role of countries like India in promoting peace and stability becomes crucial. The evolving dynamics between India, the US, and Russia will be closely watched in the coming days as the global geopolitical landscape continues to shift.
