Congress questions Modi govt after Russia advances jet engine supply to Pakistan
New Delhi: The Congress party on Friday questioned the Modi government’s foreign policy after reports emerged that Russia is proceeding with supplying advanced RD-93MA jet engines for Pakistan’s JF-17 fighter aircraft, despite India’s diplomatic objections.
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “personalised diplomacy” on X, asking why a traditional strategic partner like Russia is now allegedly providing military support to Pakistan while India continues to pursue high-value defence deals with Moscow.
Ramesh points to defence and operational concerns
Ramesh wrote: “The Modi government must explain why Russia — once India’s most reliable strategic ally — has chosen to ignore New Delhi’s appeals and proceed with supplying advanced RD-93MA engines to Pakistan’s fleet of Chinese-made JF-17 fighter jets.”
He referred to reports that the latest JF-17 Block III variant would be equipped with upgraded engines and PL-15 missiles, the same missiles reportedly used during Operation Sindoor, following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Ramesh also cited remarks by the Indian Air Force chief, who suggested that the JF-17 may have been among the Pakistani aircraft deployed during the conflict.
Critique of high-profile diplomacy
Taking aim at PM Modi, Ramesh argued that the development highlights the limits of “high-visibility diplomacy”:
“Years of high-profile summits, choreographed photo opportunities with hugs, and grandstanding on the world stage have failed to yield substantive outcomes.”
He added that despite external affairs minister S. Jaishankar’s direct intervention in June 2025, the Russian-Pakistani defence deal reportedly continues.
Meanwhile, India remains engaged with Russia on major defence purchases, including the S-400 missile systems and potential acquisition of Su-57 stealth fighters.
Broader concerns over strategic posture
Ramesh warned that India has failed to diplomatically isolate Pakistan.
He wrote: “India remains unable to diplomatically isolate Pakistan. Instead, Pakistan’s leadership — including its army chief field marshal Asim Munir, whose communally poisonous statements provided the immediate backdrop to the Pahalgam terror attack — is being courted very warmly by President Donald Trump and supplied weapons by President Vladimir Putin, all while enjoying unqualified backing from China during Operation Sindoor.”
He further urged the Modi government to provide a clear explanation of the strategic implications of the Russia-Pakistan deal, and whether it signals a shift in Moscow’s posture in the region.
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