‘Factually incorrect and entirely baseless’: MEA responds to NATO chief’s Modi-Putin call claim

Speaking to CNN earlier, Rutte had claimed that US President Donald Trump’s tariffs on India were indirectly affecting Russia, and that New Delhi had reached out to Moscow. He said, “Delhi is on the phone with Putin, and Narendra Modi is asking him to explain his strategy on Ukraine because India is being hit with tariffs.”

Dismissing these comments, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at a press briefing, “We have seen the statements made by NATO chief Mark Rutte regarding a purported phone call between Prime Minister Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin, and let me be clear, this statement is factually incorrect and entirely baseless.”

He added, “At no point has PM Modi spoken with President Putin in the manner suggested. No such conversation has taken place.”

India Stresses Responsible Communication

Jaiswal emphasised that India expects an important institution like NATO to maintain accuracy and responsibility in its statements.

“Speculative or careless remarks that misrepresent the Prime Minister’s engagements or suggest conversations that never occurred are unacceptable,” he said.

The remarks come amid heightened discussions on India’s purchase of Russian oil and the impact of Trump’s recent tariff hike on Indian exports. Last month, the US President doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent, including an additional 25 per cent levy as a penalty for New Delhi’s Russian oil imports.

Reaffirming India’s stance, the MEA spokesperson said, “India will continue taking all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security.” He also reiterated that India’s energy imports are aimed at ensuring predictable and affordable costs for its 1.4 billion citizens.

Meanwhile, trade talks between India and the US are ongoing, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal leading discussions in New York to push for a mutually beneficial agreement.