On Monday, the United States emphasized the importance of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the eve of the NATO summit in Washington.
State Department spokesman Matthew Miller referred to India as a “strategic partner” and stated, “We saw PM Modi, like PM Orban, meet with President Zelenskyy. We considered that an important step. We urge India, as we do any country engaging with Russia, to make clear that any resolution to the conflict in Ukraine must respect the UN Charter, Ukraine’s territorial integrity, and Ukraine’s sovereignty. India is a strategic partner with whom we engage in a full and frank dialogue, including on our concerns about its relationship with Russia.”
White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby, addressing a press conference, said, “The president has strongly encouraged greater partnerships between the NATO alliance and friendly nations worldwide, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.
The president recognizes that global threats and challenges, including those from authoritarian actors and terrorist organizations, are interconnected. He also urged our NATO allies to join him in making significant investments in our mutual defense and deterrence capabilities.”
The United States has cultivated strong ties with India, recognizing it as a crucial ally amid China’s growing influence. President Joe Biden invited Modi for a state visit a year ago, reflecting this partnership.
India’s long-standing relationship with Moscow originates from the Cold War era. Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, India has refrained from joining Western sanctions against Russia, choosing instead to buy discounted energy from them.
Leaders from 38 nations have gathered in Washington for a landmark summit celebrating the 75th anniversary of the first NATO summit. Attendees include the heads of all NATO member countries and NATO partners, such as Ukraine, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea.
