US Urges PM Modi to Address Ukraine’s ‘Sovereignty’ During Two-Day Meeting with Putin

The United States has called on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to emphasize Ukraine’s territorial integrity during his meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Russia. This appeal comes as NATO prepares for a summit in Washington. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller urged India, like any other country engaging with Russia, to insist that any resolution to the conflict in Ukraine must respect the UN Charter regarding Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Miller acknowledged India’s status as a strategic partner with whom the US engages in a full and frank dialogue, which includes discussions on concerns about India’s relationship with Russia. He noted that while he was unaware of specific conversations with India regarding PM Modi’s visit to Russia, the broader US-India dialogue covers these issues.

The US has developed strong relations with India, viewing it as a key partner in countering China’s rise. President Joe Biden invited PM Modi for a state visit a year ago, highlighting the importance of the bilateral relationship. Despite this, India maintains a longstanding relationship with Moscow, dating back to the Cold War. India has chosen not to join Western sanctions over the Ukraine war and has instead taken advantage of discounted energy imports from Russia.