Indian Troops Participate In Military Exercise In Russia Despite US Concerns

Amid the Russia-Ukraine war and concerns from the United States, soldiers of the Indian Army landed in Russia to take part in multilateral strategic and command exercise Vostok-2022.

The countries like China, India, Belarus, Mongolia, and Tajikistan are participating in this week-long military exercise.

Russian and Chinese navies will participate in drills in the Sea of Okhotsk and the Sea of Japan. However, India will not participate in this maritime component of the exercise because of Japan's sensitiveness.

Exercise is aimed at interaction and coordination amongst other participating military contingents and observers, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

The Indian army contingent consists of troops from 7/8 Gorkha Rifles. Exercise focuses on joint manoeuvres including joint field training exercises, combat discussions, and firepower exercises and the contingent will also look forward to sharing practical aspects and putting into practice the validated drills, procedures, and practice amalgamation of new technology through discussions and tactical exercises, according to ministry.

Meanwhile, Karine Jean-Pierre, Press Secretary, White House in a press briefing said, "The United States has concerns about any country exercising with Russia while Russia wages an unprovoked, brutal war against Ukraine." 

However, she mentioned that every country makes its own decision.

(With input from Reuters)