EU Intensifies Engagement with India Amid Concerns Over Military Cooperation with Russia
The European Union is ramping up its diplomatic efforts with India to counter the ongoing war in Ukraine, emphasizing the need to prevent any facilitation of Russian military capabilities. The EU’s communication highlights the importance of curtailing enablers of warfare and the potential re-export of EU-origin items to Russia, reports 24brussels.
Brussels has expressed particular concern regarding India’s participation in military exercises alongside Russia and has committed to addressing issues related to sanctions circumvention. The recent joint military exercise Zapad, where 65 Indian troops participated, involved simulations of a nuclear attack on NATO countries by the Kremlin, further straining diplomatic relations. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent summit in China, a public display of camaraderie with President Putin raised additional questions about India’s stance.
“Participating in military exercises, purchasing oil, all these are obstacles to our cooperation when it comes to deepening the ties,” stated Kaja Kallas, the EU’s chief diplomat, during a press conference in Brussels regarding the EU-India Strategic Agenda. This remark underscores growing apprehensions in the EU about India’s burgeoning ties with Russia.
Kallas also cautioned that failure to engage with India could leave a vacuum that might be exploited by hostile nations. “The question is always whether we leave this void to be filled by somebody else or try to fill it ourselves,” she noted, highlighting the strategic importance of EU-India relations in the current geopolitical landscape.
As part of the EU’s 19th sanctions package, the bloc is contemplating measures against countries that assist Russia in evading sanctions. This initiative directly implicates India, which has emerged as one of the largest purchasers of Russian oil and coal, significantly contributing to Russia’s revenue streams amid its ongoing military campaign in Ukraine.
The EU’s measures reflect an evolving geopolitical environment, where nations are reassessing alliances and trade relationships in light of Russia’s actions. As India’s military ties with Russia grow, the EU’s proactive stance is increasingly seen as vital to maintaining a strong international front against the effects of the war in Ukraine.
