India’s Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, confirms BrahMos missile’s effectiveness during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. In a Russian interview, he highlights deepening India-Russia defence ties, India’s Kashmir policy, and Modi’s call for peace in Ukraine.
In a significant statement underscoring India-Russia defence cooperation, India’s Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, highlighted the successful deployment of the BrahMos missile during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. In an interview with the Russian daily Izvestia, Ambassador Kumar emphasized that the operation, which occurred between May 7 and 10, showcased the battle-readiness and effectiveness of indigenous Indian defence systems co-developed with Russia.
Kumar noted that the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile—jointly produced by India and Russia—once again demonstrated its precision and deterrent capability during the operation. “Equipment manufactured in India, including BrahMos, has repeatedly proven its effectiveness, including during the period from May 7 to 10. Therefore, I believe that our relations in this area will only develop,” he stated.
He further elaborated that defence ties between the two countries are not limited to traditional procurement. “Our relations have even deepened recently. We not only buy and sell military equipment, but also engage in joint development and production of defence products,” Kumar added.
When asked about the prospects of new defence deals, the Ambassador confirmed that discussions on military and technical cooperation are ongoing. He stressed the enduring importance of this strategic partnership for both nations.
Turning to regional tensions, Kumar clarified that the current standoff with Pakistan stemmed from India’s response to a brutal terrorist attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. In that incident, 26 pilgrims were shot at close range after being identified by their religion. Kumar reiterated that the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan remains a bilateral matter, without the need for third-party mediation.
“India has consistently pursued a policy according to which Kashmir is a matter of policy on both sides, and mediation by a third party is not envisaged,” he said, reiterating New Delhi’s longstanding position. He also acknowledged the expressions of support from Russian leaders, including President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, following the Pahalgam incident.
The Ambassador also addressed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stance on the Ukraine conflict, reaffirming India’s support for peaceful negotiations. “If we can do something to promote dialogue and a peaceful settlement of the conflict, we will be ready to do it,” he said.
This interview reflects not only the strengthening of India-Russia defence cooperation but also India’s firm stance on national security and its consistent foreign policy of strategic autonomy and non-alignment.
