President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Pahalgam terror attack, pledged Russia’s strong support in the fight against terrorism, and stressed the importance of bringing the perpetrators to justice. The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the India-Russia strategic partnership.
Moscow:
Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, strongly condemning the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. During the call, Putin offered heartfelt condolences over the loss of innocent lives and reaffirmed Russia’s unwavering support for India in its fight against terrorism. He emphasized the need to bring the attackers and their supporters to justice.
India-Russia Strategic Partnership Strengthened
According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, both leaders reiterated their commitment to enhancing the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. PM Modi also extended warm greetings to President Putin on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of Victory Day and invited him to India for the upcoming Annual Summit, an invitation Putin has accepted, as confirmed by Russian news agency TASS.
Russia’s Lavrov Speaks With Jaishankar, Urges Dialogue
Earlier, on May 3, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov discussed the Pahalgam attack in a phone call with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Lavrov urged resolution of India-Pakistan disputes through bilateral political and diplomatic dialogue.
India Responds Firmly to Pahalgam Attack, Targets Pakistan
Following the attack, India announced decisive actions against Pakistan. During a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting on April 23, chaired by PM Modi, the government suspended the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, citing Pakistan’s continued support for cross-border terrorism. Additionally, India closed the integrated Attari Check Post and expelled Pakistani High Commission officials by declaring them persona non grata.
Visa and Trade Restrictions Imposed on Pakistan
The Indian government canceled all visas issued under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme and gave Pakistani nationals 48 hours to leave the country. Furthermore, India suspended all visa services for Pakistani citizens and imposed a total ban on the import and transit of goods from Pakistan, effectively halting all bilateral trade, as per a notification from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.