In which war did Russia help India?

Russia, then known as the Soviet Union, provided crucial support to India during the 1971 war between India and Pakistan.

Historical Context: Indo-Soviet Relations During the Cold War

The relationship between India and the Soviet Union reached a significant peak during the Cold War era. This period fostered a strong strategic partnership, largely driven by shared geopolitical interests and economic cooperation. The Soviet Union emerged as a reliable ally for India, especially when many Western nations were hesitant to support India's non-aligned stance or its specific foreign policy objectives.

One of the most defining moments of this alliance was the Soviet Union's unwavering support for India during the 1971 conflict. This assistance was pivotal and underscored the depth of their friendship.

The 1971 Indo-Pakistani War

The 1971 war, often referred to as the Bangladesh Liberation War, saw significant intervention from the Soviet Union in support of India. This military and diplomatic backing was instrumental in shaping the conflict's outcome.

Key aspects of the Soviet Union's support included:

• Diplomatic Shield: The Soviet Union effectively used its veto power in the United Nations Security Council to block resolutions that were unfavorable to India, particularly those calling for a ceasefire without addressing the underlying issues of the conflict or the plight of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
• Military Aid: While not directly involved in combat, the Soviet Union had been a major supplier of military equipment to India, ensuring that the Indian armed forces were well-equipped for the conflict.
• Naval Presence: The Soviet Union deployed naval assets to the Indian Ocean, a move seen as a counter-measure to the presence of the US Seventh Fleet, which had been dispatched to the Bay of Bengal, reportedly to intimidate India. This act of deterrence was a strong signal of Soviet commitment to India.

This period also marked the signing of the Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and Cooperation in August 1971, just months before the war. This treaty solidified the strategic alliance, providing a framework for mutual support and consultation in times of crisis, which was clearly demonstrated during the conflict that followed.

Key Details of Soviet Support in 1971

Here’s a summary of the Soviet Union’s pivotal role:

The 1971 war stands as a testament to the strong bond forged between India and the Soviet Union, highlighting a period when their strategic partnership was at its most influential.