In a recent episode of Firstpost’s “Vantage,” host Palki Sharma highlighted a growing diplomatic tension between the United States and India. America’s top diplomat for South Asia criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Meanwhile, the US has offered support to Pakistan, a move that appears contradictory and has sparked accusations of hypocrisy from New Delhi.
The Accusation of Gaslighting
Palki Sharma began by explaining the concept of gaslighting, a form of psychological manipulation where someone is made to question their own sanity and decisions. She likened the United States’ approach to India to this toxic behavior. Sharma played a clip of US diplomat Donald Lu expressing disappointment over Modi’s trip to Moscow, a sentiment Sharma described as classic gaslighting. “I’m not angry about what you did; I’m just disappointed,” Lu said, to which Sharma retorted that New Delhi doesn’t need validation from Washington.
Double Standards in Diplomacy
Sharma pointed out the hypocrisy in the US’s stance. While Lu criticized Modi’s visit to Russia, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose actions in Gaza have resulted in significant casualties, was simultaneously visiting Washington without similar rebuke. This, Sharma argued, highlights a double standard in US foreign policy, where allies like Israel receive a pass, but partners like India are publicly admonished for their independent diplomatic choices.
India’s Firm Response
In response to Lu’s comments, India’s Foreign Ministry emphasized the long-standing relationship between India and Russia, which is based on mutual interests. The Ministry’s spokesperson stated, “In a multi-polar world, all countries have the freedom of choice. It is essential for everybody to be mindful of and appreciate such realities.” This statement underscores India’s stance that its foreign policy decisions are its own and not subject to external approval.
US-Pakistan Relations
Adding to the controversy, Lu also spoke about Washington’s relationship with Islamabad, claiming that China is Pakistan’s past while the US represents its future. This juxtaposition of US support for Pakistan, a country with a history of conflicts with India, against criticism of India’s ties with Russia, appears inconsistent and has drawn sharp criticism. Sharma pointed out the irony in expecting India to distance itself from Russia while the US continues to arm and support Pakistan.
Contradictions and Historical Context
Sharma highlighted that unlike the US and Russia, who are not at war and do not share borders, India and Pakistan have a history of direct conflict, including ongoing border disputes and terrorist activities. She noted that while India has not signed new defense deals with Russia or sent dual-use equipment, the US continues to supply military aid to Pakistan. This, she argued, poses a direct threat to India’s national security.
The Reality of India’s Position
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Russia was characterized by a message of peace, with Modi publicly stating that the war in Ukraine cannot be won on the battlefield. In contrast, the US recently announced a $450 million military package for Pakistan and renewed a deal allowing the sale of arms to Islamabad. These actions, according to Sharma, demonstrate a clear double standard and should prompt India to reassess its trust in US diplomacy.
The Need for Diplomatic Realignment
Sharma suggested that the US’s attempts to lecture India are not new and have consistently been met with resistance from New Delhi. She argued that the US’s superpower complex and belief that it is the center of the world underpins its diplomatic approach, but this mindset is increasingly out of touch with the realities of a multi-polar world where countries like India assert their own interests and policies.
The Path Forward for US-India Relations
Despite the current tensions, Sharma acknowledged that India and the US need each other for various strategic reasons, including economic development, safeguarding supply chains, countering China, and combating climate change. However, she stressed that the relationship is not yet stable and requires significant effort to bridge the trust deficit that lingers from the Cold War era.
“No Country is a Friend of India”
People in the comments shared their thoughts: “US always considers India as colonized country”
Another commenter added: “No country is friend of India. Not even Russia or Israel. But atleast these two countries dont play with our sentiments supporting our enemies unlike US who supports pakistan and khalistan.”
One person concluded: “US duplicity with India has given bad name for US among Indians”
Building a Stable Partnership
Sharma concluded by emphasizing the importance of building a stable and mutually respectful partnership between India and the US. She warned that public criticisms and perceived double standards could lead to growing resentment and friction, potentially undermining cooperation on critical global issues. The episode called for a more nuanced and respectful approach to diplomacy, recognizing India’s sovereignty and its right to pursue its national interests.
Diplomatic Balance
What do you think? How can the US better balance its relationships with India and Pakistan to avoid perceptions of favoritism and hypocrisy? What are the long-term strategic interests that bind India and the US, and how can they be strengthened amidst current tensions? In what ways can India assert its diplomatic independence while maintaining beneficial relationships with major powers like the US and Russia?
See the full video on Firstpost’s YouTube channel for more details here.
