India has deployed 65 soldiers to take part in the joint Russian-Belarusian military exercises Zapad-2025. The move has drawn sharp criticism from several Western countries, according to The Times. The paper described India’s participation as crossing a «red line.»

The Indian Ministry of Defense stated that the contingent was sent for practical reasons, including building trust between states, enhancing defense cooperation, and exchanging tactical experience.

Western analysts, however, interpreted the step as a signal of closer alignment between New Delhi and Moscow. Against the backdrop of strained relations with Washington, some view India’s involvement as a sign of potential deepening military cooperation with Russia. The report characterized New Delhi’s decision as «excessive and highly unfortunate," framing it as evidence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s growing reliance on Moscow.