India, according to Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder during a Tuesday press briefing, “is a sovereign nation; they can make their own choices in terms of who they are going to do exercises with.”

“We have greatly appreciated India’s help in this area. You are aware of how important they are as a partner. In addition, we intend to maintain our close partnership with them, “He was answering a question regarding whether or not India would join a war game involving Russia and China.

The fact that they had participated in war drills with Russia and China, which some people found alarming, prompted questions about it.

“When it comes to military cooperation, our relationship with India is quite close and friendly. Naturally, we plan to maintain and deepen our ties to India “That’s what Ryder wanted to say.

As part of their invasion of Ukraine, Russia held the Vostok military practise from September 1-7 at various locations in the Far East. China and India are among the several countries taking part in the drills.