New Delhi, June 12, 2025: Congress leader Jairam Ramesh accused the Indian government of failing diplomatically following what he described as three “huge setbacks” at the hands of the United States. Addressing the media on Thursday, Ramesh urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to call an all-party meeting, stressing the need for a united national response.
Ramesh, the Congress Party’s General Secretary in charge of Communications, cited three developments that he believes challenge the credibility of India’s foreign policy. The first, he said, came from US Central Command (CENTCOM) chief General Michael Kurilla, who referred to Pakistan as a “phenomenal partner” in counterterrorism. “It’s a bizarre statement,” said Ramesh, referencing Pakistan’s past sheltering of Osama bin Laden, who was killed in Abbottabad in 2011.
The second issue raised by the Congress MP was the invitation extended to Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Aasim Munir, to attend the US Army Day celebrations on June 14. Ramesh linked Munir’s earlier remarks—referring to the two-nation theory—to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22. “This same Aasim Munir, who made incendiary remarks, is now being hosted at a major US military event,” Ramesh pointed out.
The third point of contention was a reiteration by the US State Department spokesperson crediting President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for de-escalating tensions during Operation Sindoor. According to Ramesh, the acknowledgment undermines India’s autonomous handling of the situation and questions the current government’s claims of diplomatic strength.
Calling these developments “serious challenges,” Ramesh insisted that the Prime Minister must engage the opposition in constructive dialogue. “He should stop playing politics and start governing. Convening a special session of Parliament and taking political parties into confidence is essential,” he said.
The US Army Day celebrations, marking the 250th anniversary of the force, are set to take place on June 14 in Washington, DC. The parade will feature approximately 6,600 soldiers, 150 military vehicles, and over 50 aircraft. The date also coincides with US President Donald Trump’s birthday.
General Aasim Munir is expected to arrive in Washington for the celebration following an official invitation, signaling what many see as a deepening US-Pakistan military rapport.
