Washington: The United States is encouraging India to leverage its “special partnership” with Russia to exert “pressure” on Moscow to halt the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and facilitate lasting peace in the region, according to Margaret MacLeod, a spokesperson for the US State Department.
In an interview with ANI on Tuesday, MacLeod emphasized the US’s call for all partners, including India, to urge Russia towards peace in Ukraine. She referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s notable statement to Russian President Vladimir Putin at the 2022 SCO Summit in Bali: “This is not an era of war.”
“India and Russia share a unique partnership,” MacLeod stated. “We hope India will utilize this relationship to influence Russia against its actions in Ukraine, which violate the UN Charter.”
Asked about Western perceptions of India’s stance on the Ukraine conflict, MacLeod suggested directing inquiries to the Indian government but asserted the US perspective: “From our standpoint, Russia’s actions in Ukraine breach international law and sovereignty, evident in attacks on civilian infrastructure such as the recent tragic incident at a children’s hospital.”
Regarding the NATO Summit in Washington DC, MacLeod highlighted discussions on the alliance’s future amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. “Many NATO members, particularly those in Europe, are deeply affected by the conflict,” she noted. “Significant relief packages for Ukraine are expected to be announced during the summit.”
She also addressed the US-imposed price cap on Russian crude oil purchases, explaining its aim to diminish Russia’s financial resources used for military purposes: “Reducing Russia’s earnings limits its capacity to sustain aggression against Ukraine.”
Despite Western pressure to cease such purchases, India continues to procure Russian oil under the capped pricing, which Indian officials argue stabilizes domestic fuel prices.
Looking at bilateral relations, MacLeod emphasized the robust ties between India and the US, affirming Washington’s commitment to further strengthen these bonds despite occasional differences in perspectives. She declined to comment on US domestic politics but noted bipartisan historical efforts to enhance relations with India.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the US last year and President Biden’s subsequent visit for the G20 Summit underscored the high-level engagement between the two nations. Moreover, the upcoming Quad Summit in India later this year signifies ongoing cooperation between India and the US on regional and global issues.