The Congress party, through its general secretary Jairam Ramesh, has criticized the Indian government over Russia’s military collaboration with Pakistan. The statement calls upon the Modi administration to provide a comprehensive explanation of the situation. Ramesh stated that Russia, historically a key strategic ally of India, has begun supplying RD-93MA engines for Pakistan’s JF-17 Block-III fighter jets. These engines are designed to enhance the capabilities of the aircraft and facilitate the use of PL-15 missiles. These missiles are believed to have been used by Pakistan during Operation Sindoor against India. He emphasized that the JF-17 was among the aircraft the Indian Air Force shot down in May 2025. Ramesh alleged that the deal went forward despite the involvement of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. He questioned the implications of Russia providing strategic weapons to Pakistan while India continues to procure defense systems like the S-400 and negotiates for items such as the Su-57, suggesting a flaw in India’s foreign policy. He viewed this as a demonstration of Prime Minister Modi’s diplomatic shortcomings, wherein image management and global attention take precedence over national interests. He pointed out that India’s regional diplomacy and global influence are diminishing, evidenced by the recent respect for Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, in the United States and the strategic collaboration between Pakistan and Russia. Ramesh urged the Indian government to clarify why it has failed to maintain its relationships with its traditional partners and why it has remained silent on the growing military support for Pakistan.
