India is a ‘strategic partner’: Pentagon

India is a “strategic” ally, and the Pentagon has said that the US is looking forward to continuing to develop that partnership.

Pentagon Press Secretary Pat Ryder made the remarks at a press conference in Washington.

“India is a strategic partner, and we look forward to continuing to develop that partnership,” he told reporters in response to a question.

Responding to a question on the Ukraine-Russia conflict, Mr. Ryder said, “When it comes to Ukraine and Russia’s illegal occupation and invasion of Ukraine. Ultimately, at the end of the day, it’s up to Ukraine to decide when they are ready to negotiate for peace.”

“Right now, our focus continues to be on working with Ukraine to provide them with what they need to defend their country, defend their sovereignty, and take back territory. But at the end of the day, there’s no decision about Ukraine without Ukraine,” he said.