The Pentagon affirmed the United States’ ongoing recognition of India as a strategic partner, expressing trust in India’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at “enduring and just peace for Ukraine.” This statement followed Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s significant visit to Russia.
Addressing reporters in New York, Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder emphasized the enduring relationship between India and Russia, acknowledging India’s strategic partnership with the U.S. and the full and frank dialogues, including India’s ties with Russia.
The Joe Biden administration has already expressed its concerns during Modi’s two-day visit to Russia’s Moscow, particularly regarding India’s growing ties with Russia and the potential implications for the US-India relationship.
“But I do not think anybody will be surprised if (Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin tries to represent this visit in a way that seeks to show somehow that he is not isolated from the rest of the world. And the fact of the matter is, President Putin’s war of choice has isolated Russia from the rest of the world, and it has come at great cost,” Pat Ryder said responding to questions on Modi’s Russia visit.
“Their war of aggression has come at great cost, and the facts bear that out. So, we will continue to view India as a crucial and reliable strategic partner. We will continue to have robust dialogue with them,” Ryder said, underlining the significance of India’s strategic partnership with the U.S.
When a reporter said “He (Putin) is not looking so isolated with the head of the world’s largest democracy being in Moscow, embracing him right now”, Ryder replied, “I would also note that the Prime Minister also met recently with the Ukrainian president and offered his assurances that India will continue to do everything within its means to support a peaceful solution to the war in Ukraine.”
“We trust that India will support efforts to realize an enduring and just peace for Ukraine. We are confident that India will convey to Mr. Putin the importance of adhering to the UN charter and the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he added, reiterating the Biden administration’s trust in India’s diplomatic efforts.
