Russian President Vladimir Putin called Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday to express strong support after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which killed 26 civilians. Putin condemned the attack, called it “barbaric,” and assured India of Russia’s full support in the fight against terrorism.
The phone call came amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, as India blamed the attack on cross-border elements. Putin told Modi that those responsible for the violence, as well as their supporters, must be brought to justice. He also offered condolences for the lives lost.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, both leaders agreed to continue working together against terrorism and to deepen their special and strategic partnership. Putin noted that the friendship between Russia and India is strong, unaffected by outside pressure, and continues to grow in many areas.
Putin also thanked Modi for his greetings on the 80th anniversary of Russia’s Victory Day, which celebrates the defeat of Nazi Germany. Modi invited Putin to visit India for the annual India-Russia summit later this year.
Following the Pahalgam attack, India has taken several strong steps against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty. Prime Minister Modi has given the military complete freedom to respond to the attack as needed. In response, Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian flights and suspended trade with India.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also spoke to India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar last week, discussing the rising India-Pakistan tensions. Lavrov urged both sides to resolve issues through peaceful talks, referring to the Simla Agreement and Lahore Declaration.
Due to the ongoing tensions, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will not attend the Victory Day celebration in Moscow. India will instead send Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth.
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