The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday dismissed as “entirely baseless” NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte’s claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had asked Russian President Vladimir Putin to “explain his strategy” on Ukraine following U.S. sanctions on India for its Russian oil purchases.
In a statement, the MEA underscored that such speculative remarks about “conversations that never occurred” are unacceptable and called on NATO leadership to exercise greater responsibility when making public statements.
‘Incorrect’ Claim
The ministry said, “We have seen NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte’s statement regarding an alleged phone conversation between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin. The claim is factually incorrect and entirely unfounded. At no time has Prime Minister Modi spoken to President Putin in the manner suggested; no such conversation has taken place.”
It added, “We expect the leadership of an important institution like NATO to ensure accuracy and responsibility in public communications. Speculative or careless remarks misrepresenting the Prime Minister’s engagements are unacceptable.”
Reaffirming India’s stance on energy imports, the MEA stated that such decisions are guided by national interest and economic security. “India’s energy imports aim to ensure predictable and affordable costs for consumers. We will continue taking necessary measures to safeguard national interests and economic security,” the statement read.
Rutte’s comments, made to CNN on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, suggested that U.S. tariffs, including a 25% penalty for buying Russian oil, had prompted Modi to call Putin. He said, “Delhi is now on the phone with Moscow, and Narendra Modi is asking him, ‘I support you, but could you explain your strategy to me?’”
India-US Talks
India swiftly rejected these claims amid warming ties with the U.S. after earlier tensions over the tariffs. Recent interactions include Trump calling Modi on his 75th birthday, praising his efforts toward resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and Modi emphasising the commitment to elevating the India-U.S. partnership.
Earlier this week, a delegation led by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met U.S. officials in New York to discuss trade, following bilateral negotiations in New Delhi on a trade agreement.
(With inputs from IBNS)
