US Reaffirms India As Key Partner Despite Russia Ties

The Biden Administration has affirmed on Tuesday, that India will remain a strategic partner for the US despite concerns about its relationship with Russia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Russia for the 22nd India-Russia annual summit, which drew attention from the West due to the ongoing Ukraine conflict. During his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Modi emphasized that the Ukraine conflict cannot be resolved on the battlefield and called for peace efforts

Both the Pentagon and the State Department addressed India’s ties with Russia. Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder acknowledged the long-standing India-Russia relationship but reiterated that the US views India as a strategic partner and will continue transparent dialogue. Ryder also mentioned the NATO summit as a global focus.

State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller expressed US concerns about India’s relationship with Russia, which have been communicated privately to the Indian government. Despite these concerns, the US maintains a strong dialogue with India.

India defends its “special and privileged strategic partnership” with Russia and continues strong ties despite the Ukraine conflict. India has not condemned Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, instead advocating for conflict resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.

Major General Ryder suggested that Putin might use Modi’s visit to suggest he is not isolated globally. However, Ryder pointed out that Russia’s actions in Ukraine have led to international isolation and significant costs. He reiterated the US view of India as a strategic partner and the commitment to continued dialogue.

Ryder referenced Modi’s recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, where Modi assured that India would support peaceful solutions to the Ukraine conflict. Ryder expressed trust in India’s support for an enduring and just peace in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of adhering to UN principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Miller reiterated the US position, urging India to support efforts for a just peace in Ukraine, consistent with the UN charter and Ukraine’s territorial integrity. This stance will continue to guide US engagements with India.

The Biden Administration values India as a strategic partner and maintains robust dialogue despite differences over Russia. India’s balanced stance on the Ukraine conflict and its diplomatic engagements with both Russia and Ukraine reflect its ongoing commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.