India Strongly Refutes Allegations of Ammunition Diversion to Ukraine: An Unwavering Stand
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has firmly denied allegations from news agency Reuters that Indian artillery shells are being diverted to Ukraine. Labeling the report as “speculative and misleading,” the MEA rebutted claims of international export regulation breaches by India.
According to Reuters, artillery shells produced by Indian manufacturers and sold to European buyers are ending up in Ukraine, aiding its defense against Russia. The report also stated that Russia had expressed concerns to India about these alleged diversions during diplomatic discussions.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal responded, “India has an impeccable international obligations record concerning the export of military and dual-use items. The Reuters report implies violations where none exist, making it both inaccurate and mischievous.”
The MEA stressed that India’s defense exports operate under a stringent legal and regulatory framework designed to prevent unauthorized transfers. “Our regulations ensure that weaponry is used solely by the declared purchaser, and any breaches can lead to the termination of future sales,” the statement added.
Reuters further suggested that India had not acted to stop these transfers despite protests from Moscow, citing unnamed sources within the Indian government and defense sector. These sources claimed a small portion of ammunition used by Ukraine was of Indian origin. However, the MEA dismissed these claims as baseless.
India is a major arms exporter, with Stockholm International Peace Research Institute data showing over $3 billion in exports between 2018 and 2023. Despite this, the MEA affirms that India’s export practices are strict and fully compliant with international standards.
Original Story https://www.indiatodayne.in/national/story/india-denies-claims-of-ammunition-diversion-to-ukraine-1095417-2024-09-19?utm_source=rssfeed
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