India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) today issued a sharp rejection of a claim made by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who had suggested that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had contacted Russian President Vladimir Putin to enquire about Moscow’s strategy in Ukraine. The MEA spokesperson termed the remarks as "entirely baseless" and "unacceptable."
The controversy erupted following comments attributed to Mr. Rutte, which insinuated that PM Modi sought to understand Russia’s Ukraine strategy, particularly in light of the economic impact on India from Washington’s punitive tariffs.
In a strongly worded statement, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We have noted the speculative and careless remarks attributed to the NATO Secretary-General. We wish to state unequivocally that the suggestion that Prime Minister Modi dialled President Putin to ask for Moscow’s strategy on Ukraine is entirely baseless."
The spokesperson further emphasized that any remarks that "misrepresent Mr. Modi's engagements or suggest conversations that never occurred are unacceptable."
The public rebuttal underscores India’s persistent efforts to maintain its strategic autonomy and navigate a complex geopolitical landscape, especially concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. New Delhi has maintained a nuanced stance on the war, calling for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the crisis while continuing to engage with both Moscow and Western capitals.
Context of US Tariffs
The NATO chief’s alleged comments come at a time of heightened trade friction between India and the United States. Recently, the US administration imposed new tariffs, partly in response to India's continued purchase of Russian crude oil.
India has consistently defended its energy and security decisions, stating they are guided by its national interests and the need to secure affordable energy for its population. The MEA's forceful denial today is seen by observers as an attempt to prevent external narratives from inaccurately framing the motivations behind India's foreign policy or its relationship with Russia.
The incident is expected to be a point of discussion during upcoming diplomatic engagements, as India continues to articulate its independent foreign policy to the international community.
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