By Bharat Global Time | July 17, 2025
Veteran Indian diplomat K.B. Fabian has fired back at NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg over his recent remarks warning India against its growing trade and strategic ties with Russia. Fabian, known for his blunt diplomacy, called Stoltenberg’s comments “uninformed” and “arrogant,” adding that the NATO Chief is “talking through his hat.”
This rare direct rebuke has stirred a fresh debate over India’s independent foreign policy and the West’s attempts to pressure neutral powers.
The Controversial Remark
Last week, NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg, during a Brussels press briefing, indirectly warned India that “its continued engagement with Russia undermines the global effort to isolate Moscow,” especially in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
He hinted that India could face economic or diplomatic consequences if it doesn’t “rethink its alignment.”
Fabian Hits Back: “India Will Not Be Lectured”
Responding on an international panel, Ambassador K.B. Fabian, who served in key diplomatic roles across the Middle East and Europe, didn’t mince words:
“NATO’s Secretary General is talking through his hat. India has not joined any military bloc, and we do not require a certificate from NATO to conduct our foreign trade.”
He went on to say:
- “India’s ties with Russia are deep-rooted and strategic, dating back to a time when the West abandoned us.”
- “NATO should look inward before lecturing sovereign democracies.”
- “This kind of neo-colonial arrogance doesn’t work anymore.”
India’s Stand: Strategic Autonomy First
India has consistently refused to join Western sanctions on Russia. Instead, it has:
- Increased crude oil imports from Russia
- Expanded bilateral trade via rupee-ruble payment mechanisms
- Participated in joint defense projects with Moscow, including the S-400 missile system
While the U.S. and NATO members have passively accepted this stance, Stoltenberg’s recent tone reflects growing Western impatience with India’s balancing act.
Global Reactions
Support from Global South
Countries across Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia have backed India’s decision, praising its non-aligned approach in a polarized world.
Criticism from Western Media
Sections of the Western press accused India of “funding Russia’s war machine”, ignoring the fact that Europe still buys billions worth of Russian gas.
Expert Take
Prof. C. Raja Mohan (Geostrategic Analyst):
“India is not Europe’s backyard. NATO must recognize that the global south will not dance to Washington or Brussels’ tunes anymore.”
Meera Sanyal (Former Diplomat):
“Fabian’s sharp words reflect the mood in New Delhi — India is no longer apologetic about choosing what’s in its own national interest.”
Final Word
As the world moves towards a multipolar order, voices like K.B. Fabian’s underline a new Indian assertiveness.
India’s message is clear: We will trade with whom we want, when we want, and on our own terms — not NATO’s.
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