By: The Trek News Desk
A diplomatic storm broke out just days before Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in India, after the envoys of the United Kingdom, France and Germany co-authored an opinion piece in an Indian newspaper sharply criticising Moscow’s role in the Ukraine war. The article accused President Putin of showing a “complete disregard for human life,” setting off a strong reaction from MEA.
MEA Calls It ‘Unacceptable’
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the joint op-ed as “unacceptable and unexpected,” signalling clear displeasure.
Reacting to the article penned by UK High Commissioner Lindy Cameron, French Ambassador Thierry Mathou, and German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann, a senior MEA official said, “This is highly unusual. Publicly commenting on another country’s bilateral ties violates diplomatic norms. We have taken note of this.”
The op-ed, titled “The World Wants the Ukraine War to End, but Russia Isn’t Serious About Peace,” accused Moscow of pursuing a “ruthless war strategy” and sustaining “aggression by design.” The three envoys further alleged that Russia employs cyberattacks and disinformation to fuel global instability, claiming its territorial ambitions go far beyond Ukraine.
India-Russia Mobility Agreement on the Horizon
Even as the controversy simmered, government officials indicated that India and Russia are close to finalising a labour mobility agreement.
Under the proposed pact, thousands of skilled and semi-skilled Indian workers could be employed in Russia, which is currently facing a severe labour shortage following the Ukraine conflict. Officials clarified that India will not impose any cap on the number of workers Russia seeks to hire; private companies would make recruitment decisions based on demand.
Key Discussions Set for December 3
The mobility agreement is expected to be a major agenda item at a conclave jointly organised on December 3 by India World magazine and the MEA. External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar will open the event, which will also feature German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann and Australian High Commissioner Philip Green as speakers.
Source: News Agencies
