India Calls NATO Chief's Remarks on Modi-Putin Call 'Entirely Baseless'
India's Ministry of External Affairs has strongly refuted claims by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte that Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Russian President Vladimir Putin to question his Ukraine strategy following new US tariffs. The ministry spokesperson described Rutte's statement as "factually incorrect and entirely baseless," asserting that no such conversation took place. India called for greater responsibility in public statements from NATO leadership and reiterated that its energy import policies are guided by national interest and economic security.
Unpacked:
Rutte made this claim to suggest that recent US tariffs on India influenced India to pressure Russia over its Ukraine strategy, implying that international economic measures were having an impact on Russia’s alliances and diplomatic stance.
India has consistently emphasized its independent foreign policy, defending its right to engage in military exercises and energy trade with Russia as matters of national interest, and often accuses Western nations of hypocrisy or double standards when criticized for these ties.
Public disputes like this can strain diplomatic relations, with India demanding greater responsibility from NATO in public statements. However, India maintains dialogue with Western countries while prioritizing its own strategic and economic interests.
Western countries, especially in Europe and the US, view India’s continued purchase of Russian oil as undermining sanctions imposed on Russia due to the Ukraine war. They argue it weakens collective efforts to pressure Russia diplomatically and economically.