The United States on Monday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to emphasize Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This call came on the eve of the NATO summit in Washington, where leaders from 38 nations are gathering to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the inaugural NATO summit.
State Department spokesman Matthew Miller highlighted the importance of Modi’s meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, calling it a significant step towards respecting Ukraine’s sovereignty. He urged India, as it engages with Russia, to clearly articulate its stance on the conflict, emphasizing the need for any resolution to respect the UN Charter and Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
“India is a strategic partner with whom we engage in a full and frank dialogue, and that includes on our concerns about the relationship with Russia,” Miller stated.
White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby further emphasized the US’s commitment to fostering stronger partnerships between NATO and friendly nations worldwide, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.
“The president has also strongly encouraged greater partnerships between the NATO alliance and friendly nations around the world, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, as you will see,” Kirby stated.
The United States has cultivated strong ties with India, recognizing its significance as an ally amidst China’s growing influence. President Joe Biden invited Modi for a state visit a year ago, underscoring this partnership. However, India’s deep-rooted connection with Moscow, dating back to the Cold War era, remains a factor in its approach to the conflict.
Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, India has opted not to participate in Western sanctions against Russia, instead choosing to purchase discounted energy from them.
The NATO summit in Washington brings together leaders from all NATO member countries and partners, including Ukraine, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea. The event serves as a platform for discussing global threats and challenges, including those posed by authoritarian actors and terrorist organizations.
