India Stands Ground On Russia, Persuades US To Elevate Ties

EAM Points To Europe’s Russia Energy Import

- Chidanand Rajghatta

Washington: With a gentle smackdown of the narrative that New Delhi somehow remains uncritical of Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine because of its defence and energy needs, India asserted its nuanced and independent stand on the conflict once again while persuading the US to accept its position and continue elevating bilateral ties.

Apress conference on Monday after the 2+2 dialogue between top foreign and defence officials of the two sides revealed both agreeing not to let differences over the Russia-Ukraine issue affect a more expansive relationship. “We watch what’s happening in the world, like any country does, and we draw our conclusions and make our assessments. And believe me, we have a decent sense of what is in our interest and know how to protect it and advance it,” foreign minister S Jaishankar said, highlighting the much larger European energy imports from Russia.

India for urgent end to war, sending aid to Ukraine: Jaishankar

Washington: Standing his ground on India’s energy purchases from Russia, external affairs minister S Jaishankar also made it clear that India had voiced its concern and criticism of the violence and bloodshed in Ukraine.

Jaishankar’s statement came in response to mild criticism from the US about why India had not condemned Moscow’s aggression and whittled down purchases from Russia. While it may not have condemned Russia outright, Jaishankar suggested that India’s position outlined at the UN and other forums —that it is “against the conflict... for dialogue and diplomacy...and for an urgent cessation of violence” — was critical of Moscow.