Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff
D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia
India Rejects Claims of Ammunition Transfers to Ukraine as 'Speculative
India has firmly denied a report that accuses the government of failing to stop European buyers from diverting Indian made artillery shells to Ukraine. The report, published by Reuters on Thursday, alleges that European customers have been transferring ammunition sold by Indian arms manufacturers to Ukraine, despite repeated protests from Moscow.
Reuters Report on Ammunition Transfers
According to the Reuters article, artillery shells produced in India have allegedly been diverted to Ukraine by European buyers for more than a year. The report claims that Delhi has not taken any steps to halt these transfers, which have occurred despite Moscow’s objections. The accusations suggest that India has been indirectly contributing to the supply of ammunition used in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
India’s Response
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has rejected the allegations, calling the report “speculative” and “misleading.” In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "The report implies violations by India, where none exist, and hence, is inaccurate and mischievous." He emphasized that India has an "impeccable track record" of complying with international arms non-proliferation obligations and maintains strict export control regulations.
Jaiswal also noted that India has robust export rules that ensure weapons sold to designated buyers are not transferred without authorization. In May, India further tightened its export regulations, requiring buyers to certify that arms would not be sent to third countries.
Impact on India Russia Relations
Moscow has yet to respond to the report or India’s dismissal of the allegations. However, according to Reuters, Russia raised the issue with Delhi on at least two occasions, including during a meeting between the foreign ministers of both nations in July.
India has historically maintained a close relationship with Russia, and Moscow remains a key trade and defense partner despite international sanctions. Russia was India’s largest oil supplier last year and continues to provide more than 60% of India’s defense needs. India has so far refrained from directly criticizing Russia over its actions in Ukraine, instead advocating for diplomacy and dialogue.
Ammunition Shortages in Ukraine
The Reuters report cites unnamed Indian and European officials, as well as customs data, to suggest that India produces a small fraction of the ammunition used by Ukraine, accounting for less than 1% of Kyiv’s total arms imports since the war began in 2021. European countries, including Italy and the Czech Republic, were identified as having sent Indian-made ammunition to Ukraine.
Ukraine, which has been facing a renewed Russian offensive, is reportedly dealing with shortages of artillery ammunition, making the alleged transfers significant. However, India’s arms export regulations strictly prohibit unauthorized transfers, and any such actions could jeopardize future arms sales.
India’s Diplomatic Balancing Act
India's foreign policy has focused on balancing its relationships with both Russia and Western powers. While Delhi has avoided directly condemning Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, it has stressed the importance of respecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also consistently advocated for dialogue to end the conflict.
In July, Modi made his first bilateral visit to Russia since his re-election, where he referred to President Vladimir Putin as a “dear friend.” This visit drew criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who expressed disappointment over Modi’s warm relationship with Putin. However, Modi later held talks with Zelensky, underscoring India's non-aligned approach in geopolitics.
