10:33 17-09-2025

EU Officials Concerned by India's Role in Zapad-2025 Exercises

© A. Krivonosov

European Union officials express concerns over India's participation in Russia-Belarus military exercises, highlighting awkward timing amid trade talks and geopolitical tensions.

According to Financial Times journalists, European Union policymakers are facing a «shameful» dilemma due to the participation of Indian military forces in the Russian-Belarusian military exercises «Zapad-2025».

One European official called the timing of this involvement «highly inappropriate» and «shameful» highlighting the uncomfortable situation for the EU.

The Financial Times reports that the participation of India in these maneuvers has put the EU in a delicate position, particularly as the exercises coincide with ongoing trade negotiations between Brussels and New Delhi. The move came as a surprise to European politicians, who now fear it could influence the outcome of these critical talks.

Anitta Hipper, the EU’s foreign affairs spokesperson, confirmed in an interview with Financial Times that the European Commission had expressed its concerns to India regarding their participation in these military drills.