India has expressed its support for the recent summit in Alaska between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement on Saturday, commending the two leaders' commitment to pursuing peace and acknowledging the progress made during the summit.

"India welcomes the Summit meeting in Alaska between US President Donald Trump and President Vladimir Putin of Russia. Their leadership in the pursuit of peace is highly commendable," stated MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. He further added, "India appreciates the progress made in the Summit. The way forward can only be through dialogue and diplomacy. The world wants to see an early end to the conflict in Ukraine".

The summit in Alaska, which lasted for nearly three hours, concluded without a signed agreement, but both leaders characterized the discussions as productive. Trump noted that while progress had been made, further work was necessary, and he would consult with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and NATO leaders before proceeding. Putin expressed his belief that the conflict in Ukraine would not have occurred if Trump had been the U.S. President in 2022.

India's official endorsement of the summit aligns with its long-standing position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The country has consistently advocated for resolving the crisis through peaceful negotiations and diplomatic channels. India's approach is rooted in its principle of "strategic autonomy," which involves engaging with all major countries and blocs, even those with strained relations with the U.S. and the West.

Despite facing pressure from the West to condemn Russia's actions, India has maintained a neutral stance, abstaining from votes on United Nations resolutions criticizing Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This position is partly due to India's dependence on Russian military equipment, with a significant portion of its in-service military platforms being of Russian origin. Moreover, India has benefited economically from the conflict, increasing its trade volume with Russia by purchasing discounted oil and fertilizers.

However, India's continued trade and technological ties with Russia have drawn criticism from Western allies, particularly regarding the potential military applications of exported goods. President Trump has also expressed his disapproval of India's oil trade with Russia, implementing tariffs on Indian exports to the U.S. as a penalty. Despite these challenges, India has asserted its right to pursue its national interests and economic security.

India's commitment to dialogue and diplomacy reflects its belief that peaceful negotiations are the only viable path to resolving the Ukraine conflict. By welcoming the U.S.-Russia summit, India signals its willingness to support efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution and ending the ongoing conflict.