Wrong: Ex-envoy as US official calls Ukraine conflict ‘Modi’s war’
In a recent development, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has taken a new turn with a US official describing the situation as “Modi’s war”. This statement has been sharply criticized by an ex-Indian diplomat, who has rubbished the claim as “totally wrong”.
The US President Donald Trump’s trade advisor, Peter Navarro, made the remarks while speaking to a news channel. However, his statement has been met with strong opposition from Veena Sikri, a former Indian envoy to Sweden. Sikri has questioned the logic behind Navarro’s statement, pointing out that India’s purchases from Russia are significantly lower than those of China and the European Union.
According to Sikri, if Navarro’s statement is to be taken at face value, one would expect India to be actively supporting Ukraine in the conflict. However, she emphasized that this is not the case. “What we buy from Russia is less than what China and EU buy from Russia, so are they supporting Ukraine war?” Sikri asked. “No, you aren’t saying that, so it’s a highly politicised statement,” she added.
Sikri’s remarks come at a time when the situation in Ukraine is becoming increasingly complex. Russia has been accused of supporting separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine, while Ukraine has been receiving military aid from the West. The conflict has resulted in significant human casualties and widespread destruction.
Navarro’s statement has been seen as an attempt to link India to the conflict, which is likely to cause tension between New Delhi and Moscow. India has traditionally maintained good relations with both Russia and the US, and has sought to balance its ties with both nations.
The US has been critical of Russia’s actions in Ukraine, and has imposed sanctions on Moscow in response. India, on the other hand, has taken a more nuanced approach, calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and urging both sides to exercise restraint.
Sikri’s criticism of Navarro’s statement highlights the need for caution and accuracy when making public statements about complex issues. The diplomat emphasized that the conflict in Ukraine is a highly politicized issue, and that it is essential to avoid making statements that are based on incomplete or inaccurate information.
In recent years, the relationship between India and Russia has been experiencing a slight strain due to India’s growing ties with the US. However, both nations have maintained that their relationship remains strong and that they are committed to cooperation in various areas, including trade and defense.
In the context of the Ukraine conflict, India has maintained its neutrality, refusing to take sides and instead calling for a peaceful resolution. The country has also been critical of the US’s decision to impose sanctions on Russia, arguing that this approach is unlikely to resolve the conflict.
Sikri’s remarks are likely to be seen as a reflection of India’s concerns about the ongoing conflict. The diplomat has emphasized that India’s relationship with Russia is based on mutual respect and cooperation, and that the country is committed to maintaining good ties with Moscow.
In conclusion, Navarro’s statement that the Ukraine conflict is “Modi’s war” has been sharply criticized by an ex-Indian diplomat. Sikri has rubbished the claim as “totally wrong”, pointing out that India’s purchases from Russia are significantly lower than those of China and the European Union. The diplomat’s remarks highlight the need for caution and accuracy when making public statements about complex issues, and emphasize the importance of maintaining good relations with all nations.
