The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India has categorically refuted the allegations made by the news agency Reuters, which suggested that artillery shells sold by Indian arms manufacturers to European customers had been diverted to Ukraine for use in its ongoing defense against Russia. The report, which alleged that Indian-made ammunition was being used in the conflict, has been dismissed as "speculative and misleading" by the Indian government, which emphasized its strict adherence to international protocols governing military exports.
In its official statement, the MEA emphasized India's commitment to fulfilling its international obligations, highlighting that India has a robust system of controls and checks when it comes to the export of military equipment and dual-use items. The ministry reiterated that India’s defense exports are conducted under a stringent legal and regulatory framework, which ensures that all relevant criteria, including end-user certifications and obligations, are meticulously assessed to prevent unauthorized use or diversion of exported arms.
The Reuters report claimed that Indian artillery shells sold to European customers were later transferred to Ukraine, a country currently in dire need of military supplies, especially artillery ammunition, as it defends itself against Russian military offensives. The report also alleged that Russia had raised concerns about this matter with India on at least two occasions, including a meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in July. According to Reuters, Moscow had urged New Delhi to intervene and prevent further transfers, but the Indian government had not taken steps to stop the trade.
The MEA, however, firmly dismissed these allegations, underscoring India’s impeccable track record in ensuring that defense exports are not misused or redirected to unintended recipients. The government stressed that the report misrepresented facts and implied violations where none exist. It further described the narrative presented by Reuters as inaccurate and mischievous, designed to create a false perception of India’s role in the conflict.
According to the Reuters report, Ukraine, which has been facing a significant shortage of artillery ammunition, has been receiving Indian-made shells as part of its efforts to bolster its defense capabilities. However, the report also noted that Indian-made ammunition accounted for a very small fraction—less than 1%—of the total arms imported by Ukraine since the conflict began. Citing sources within the Indian defense industry and government, Reuters suggested that the diversion of these arms was facilitated by European intermediaries, with Italian defense contractor Meccanica per l’Elettronica e Servomeccanismi (MES) reportedly playing a role in the supply chain. Yantra India, a government-owned arms manufacturer, was identified as the source of the munitions.
In response to these claims, the MEA reiterated that India’s defense exports are subject to rigorous scrutiny and follow all necessary protocols to ensure that they are used for the intended purposes. The ministry also noted that any allegations of arms being diverted to third parties would be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated if necessary. It underscored that India’s export practices align with its commitment to non-proliferation and the responsible trade of military goods.
The Reuters report comes at a sensitive time for India, as it seeks to maintain a delicate diplomatic balance between its historic ties with Russia and its growing relationships with Western nations. India has traditionally been a major purchaser of Russian military equipment, but it has also significantly expanded its defense exports in recent years. According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, India exported over $3 billion worth of arms between 2018 and 2023, reflecting the country’s growing prominence as a global arms supplier.
India has taken a neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, refraining from condemning either side while calling for dialogue and peaceful resolution. As a major geopolitical player, India has sought to navigate its relationships with both Russia and the West carefully. It continues to engage diplomatically with both Moscow and Kyiv while ensuring that its defense and trade practices comply with international standards.
In conclusion, India has unequivocally rejected the Reuters report, reaffirming its commitment to adhering to international laws governing arms exports. The government has made it clear that it takes its obligations seriously and will not tolerate any unauthorized use or diversion of its military exports. The MEA's response also highlights India’s growing stature as a responsible arms exporter, committed to transparency and the principles of international non-proliferation.
Â
