Thu Sep 19 05:11:34 UTC 2024: ## Indian Arms Makers’ Shells Diverted to Ukraine Despite Moscow’s Protests: Report
**New Delhi, India** – Indian-made artillery shells, originally sold to European customers, have been diverted to Ukraine in support of its defense against Russia, according to a new report by Reuters. This revelation comes despite Moscow’s protests and India’s official stance that it has not sent or sold ammunition to Ukraine.
The report, based on interviews with 11 government and defense industry officials and an analysis of customs data, states that the transfer of munitions has been ongoing for over a year. This raises concerns as Indian arms export regulations stipulate that weaponry is only to be used by the declared purchaser. Unauthorized transfers could jeopardize future sales.
The Kremlin has reportedly raised the issue with India on at least two occasions, including during a meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his Indian counterpart in July. However, India’s foreign ministry has dismissed the report as “speculative and misleading,” claiming that it implies violations that do not exist.
While India has not publicly acknowledged the transfers, sources indicate that the country has not taken any action to stop the supply of ammunition to Europe, despite monitoring the situation.
The report names Italy and the Czech Republic as among the European countries sending Indian-made munitions to Ukraine. It also states that the munitions are being used by Kyiv, which faces a dire shortage of artillery ammunition.
India’s decision to allow the transfer of munitions, even indirectly, comes amidst its growing defense and diplomatic cooperation with the United States, Ukraine’s main security backer. India also maintains close ties with Russia, its long-standing arms supplier, and has refused to join Western sanctions against Moscow.
The report highlights the complex geo-political landscape India navigates, balancing its relationship with both Russia and the West while seeking to expand its own arms export market. The transfer of munitions to Ukraine presents India with a unique opportunity to demonstrate its willingness to support the West while avoiding direct confrontation with Russia.
However, experts warn that the diversion of Indian-made ammunition could have unintended consequences, potentially damaging India’s relations with Russia and jeopardizing its future arms sales.
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