Russian President Vladimir Putin personally called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, strongly denouncing the brutal terrorist attack that struck Pahalgam on April 22.
During the phone conversation, President Putin conveyed heartfelt condolences over the tragic loss of innocent lives and extended full support to India in its battle against terrorism.
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), said that President Putin emphasised the need to bring the perpetrators of the heinous attack and their supporters to justice.
In addition to addressing the terror attack, both leaders reiterated their shared commitment to further strengthening the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.
Prime Minister Modi congratulated President Putin on the 80th anniversary of Victory Day and invited him to attend the upcoming Annual India-Russia Summit in India later this year.
Also Read: Fireworks Over Rafale: Congress Mockery Sparks BJP Backlash
Terrorists carried out the attack—one of the most horrifying acts of violence in the region in recent memory—in the scenic Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam.
On 22 April, four heavily armed terrorists, including two reportedly from Pakistan, emerged from the nearby forest and opened fire indiscriminately on tourists.
The carnage resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians and left many others seriously injured.
Just days before hosting Chinese President Xi Jinping in Moscow for the 7–10 May Victory Day commemorations, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Although President Putin invited Prime Minister Modi to attend the event, PM Modi has chosen not to travel to Russia at this time.
On the day of the attack, President Putin had already sent formal messages of condolence to both President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi.
In his letter, he described the attack as a ‘brutal crime with no justification whatsoever’ and expressed confidence that the attackers would be held accountable.
He also reiterated Russia’s ongoing commitment to working with India to counter terrorism in all forms.
Further reinforcing the diplomatic momentum, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held a phone conversation with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on 2 May.
They discussed the deteriorating situation between India and Pakistan in the wake of the Pahalgam attack, along with broader cooperation between New Delhi and Moscow.
Lavrov urged both countries to resolve their differences through political and diplomatic means, in line with the Simla Agreement of 1972 and the Lahore Declaration of 1999.
Following the call, Jaishankar wrote on social media, “Discussed the Pahalgam terrorist attack with FM Lavrov of Russia yesterday. Its perpetrators, backers and planners must be brought to justice. Also spoke about our bilateral cooperation activities.”
Continuing their tradition of annual meetings, President Putin plans to visit India in early 2025.
Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov confirmed the planned trip, stating, “Our leaders have an agreement to meet once a year. This time, it is our turn.”
The most recent visit by Putin to India occurred on 6 December 2021 during the 21st India-Russia Annual Summit in New Delhi.
Meanwhile, PM Modi visited Russia twice last year first for the 22nd India-Russia Summit in July, followed by the BRICS Summit in Kazan in October.
South Africa’s Transport Minister said speeding and an unroadworthy bus caused the Limpopo crash that…
Indian equity markets wrapped up the week on a strong note, supported by short covering…
The AAP on Saturday released its third list of 50 candidates for the upcoming Bihar…
Trump met Zelensky at the White House after a call with Putin, urging both sides…
PM Modi and other leaders extended Dhanteras greetings, praying for happiness, prosperity, and good health…
Trump on Friday reiterated that India has scaled back Russian oil imports during his meeting…