Putin Calls PM Modi, Offers “Full Support” Against Terrorists | Vantage with Palki Sharma | N18G

Summary

In this video, Russia's diplomatic role amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan is explored. President Putin assured India of full support after a terror attack, emphasizing Russia’s stance against terrorism. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Lavrov urged dialogue and diplomacy with Pakistan, despite a break in bilateral agreements. The script highlights Russia's continued strategic partnership with India, especially in defense and energy sectors. Through historical context and current developments, the video shows how Russia supports India’s position while advocating for de-escalation, making it a reliable ally amid global shifts in alliances.

Takeaways

• 😀 President Putin's recent phone call with Prime Minister Modi was a strong show of support for India, condemning the Pulwama terror attack and pledging Russia's backing for India's actions.
• 😀 Putin's statement, 'The perpetrators and supporters behind the heinous terror attack must be brought to justice,' signals Russia's unwavering support for India's response, including potential military action.
• 😀 Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov urged dialogue between India and Pakistan, referencing the Shimla Agreement and Lahore Declaration, which aim to resolve disputes bilaterally.
• 😀 The Shimla Agreement, now suspended by Pakistan in response to India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, is no longer a viable option for resolving tensions between India and Pakistan.
• 😀 Russia emphasized the Lahore Declaration, signed in 1999, which prohibits the use of nuclear weapons between India and Pakistan, even after the 1999 Kargil War.
• 😀 Russia's strategy with Pakistan differs; Lavrov offered to mediate between India and Pakistan, showing a more diplomatic approach without pushing for de-escalation or past agreements.
• 😀 Russia’s involvement with both India and Pakistan shows its role as a mediator, balancing diplomacy with clear support for India in the event of military action.
• 😀 Russia’s longstanding support for India is not new—similar statements were made after the Pulwama attack in 2019, where Putin supported India’s right to punish the attackers.
• 😀 Despite advocating for dialogue publicly, Russia has consistently backed India’s position in bilateral disputes, providing military and diplomatic support over the years.
• 😀 Russia remains India's largest arms supplier, with nearly 65% of India's weapons coming from Russia, alongside growing trade ties, particularly in oil, cementing a strong strategic relationship.

Q & A

What was the main purpose of President Putin's call to Prime Minister Modi?

The main purpose of President Putin's call to Prime Minister Modi was to express solidarity with India after the Pelgam terror attack and to emphasize that the perpetrators and their supporters must be brought to justice. It also served as a signal of Russia's support for India, including potential military action if needed.

How did Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov approach the situation with India and Pakistan?

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov urged India and Pakistan to engage in dialogue, referencing historical agreements like the Shimla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration. He emphasized resolving disputes bilaterally, but his message to Pakistan was more focused on mediation, as opposed to calling for de-escalation or adherence to past agreements.

What is the significance of the Shimla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration in this context?

The Shimla Agreement (1972) and the Lahore Declaration (1999) are significant because they outline the framework for India and Pakistan to resolve disputes bilaterally, including the prevention of nuclear conflict. Russia referred to these agreements in its diplomatic efforts but acknowledged that Pakistan has suspended the Shimla Agreement in response to India's actions regarding the Indus Waters Treaty.

Why has the Shimla Agreement been suspended, and what is its impact on India-Pakistan relations?

Pakistan suspended the Shimla Agreement in response to India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. The suspension of these agreements further complicates diplomatic efforts between India and Pakistan, making it more difficult to resolve disputes through bilateral talks.

How did Russia's response to the Pelgam terror attack differ between its communication with India and Pakistan?

Russia's response to the Pelgam terror attack was more supportive towards India, with President Putin offering full backing to India. However, Russia's communication with Pakistan, through Foreign Minister Lavrov, was more neutral and focused on mediation, with no emphasis on preventing escalation or adhering to past agreements.

What does Russia’s military support to India include, according to the script?

Russia has provided India with shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles, which are effective against helicopters and drones. Russia continues to be India's largest weapon supplier, contributing around 65% of India’s military arsenal.

How does Russia’s relationship with India compare to its relationship with Pakistan, based on the script?

Russia's relationship with India is much stronger and more aligned, with deep military and economic ties. Russia has consistently supported India's stance in international matters, whereas its relationship with Pakistan is more neutral, with Russia offering mediation between the two countries without taking a clear side.

How has Russia maintained its position as a key strategic ally to India despite global pressures?

Despite global pressures, such as Western efforts to isolate Russia, India has kept its doors open to Russia, maintaining strong military and economic ties. Russia continues to supply weapons, oil, and other resources, reinforcing its role as a constant and supportive ally to India.

What role did Russia play during the 1999 Kargil War, and how does it compare to its current position?

During the 1999 Kargil War, Russia urged both India and Pakistan to de-escalate and stick to the Shimla Agreement and Lahore Declaration. Despite calling for restraint, Russia backed India's position behind the scenes, including speeding up weapon deliveries. This stance is similar to its current position, where it continues to support India, even while calling for dialogue.

What does the significant military relationship between India and Russia imply for future conflicts in the region?

The strong military relationship between India and Russia, demonstrated by the continued supply of weapons and military support, suggests that Russia will remain a key ally for India in any future conflicts in the region. This alliance ensures that India has access to advanced military technology and resources, which could be crucial in times of escalation.