In recent global developments, US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin convened in a highly anticipated summit in Helsinki, the capital of Finland. The world closely scrutinized this event, viewed by many as the potential turning point in resetting the diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Key Discussion Points Unveiled
One of the main highlights of the summit was the discussion surrounding the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START). The existing agreement is set to expire in 2021, with Russia having signaled its willingness to extend it. Among other critical matters discussed were the Ukrainian crisis, the civil war in Syria, the Iran nuclear deal, and the threats from nuclear weapons and intercontinental ballistic missiles. However, amidst confirmed allegations of Russian interference in U.S. politics by U.S. Intelligence Agencies, President Trump maintained that he found no reason to believe Russia had any hand in election meddling.
To clarify, START I and START II were agreements between the United States and the Soviet Union (later the United States and Russia) aimed at reducing the number of long-range nuclear weapons. START I was signed in 1991 and followed later by the conclusion of the START II treaty in 1993.
Summit Amid Rising Global Tensions
The timing of this summit is critical, falling amidst rising tensions between the US and its traditional allies in Europe and Asia on various fronts. These include accusations from the United States about NATO members’ over-reliance on the US for security, and the ongoing tariffs and trade wars. Concurrently, Europe and Russia are experiencing strained relations due to Britain’s allegations against Russia concerning a deadly nerve agent attack on British soil, Russia’s annexation of Crimea from Ukraine, and support for the Syrian regime.
Additionally, the summit follows the indictments of 12 Russian military intelligence agents in the United States, accused of interfering in the November 2016 US elections.
The Relevance of The Summit For India
For India, the success of the Trump-Putin summit could spell good news. Deteriorating US-Russia ties have placed considerable strain on India. The Countering America’s Adversaries through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), a law that can lead to sanctions on countries engaging in “significant transactions” with any listed Russian companies, serves as a recent example.
Due to close defense ties with Russia, the Indian armed forces rely heavily on Russia for strategic technologies and supplies. India has also shown concern over Russia’s growing isolation from the West, which has pushed it closer to China – India’s main strategic rival in Asia. Meanwhile, India’s improving relations with Washington have led to Russia becoming increasingly wary of India’s ties with the US.
This summit’s outcome could significantly affect India’s diplomatic relations, especially considering recent developments like Russia’s inaugural military exercises with Pakistan in 2016 and its decision to start selling weapons to Islamabad.
