Responding to a question about Indian involvement in the Russian-hosted exercises, Jean-Pierre said, "So, the United States has concerns about any country exercising with Russia while Russia wages a unprovoked, brutal war against Ukraine." She continued, "But, of course, every participating country will make its own decisions. And I'll leave it at that."

New Delhi is participating in the Vostok 2022 war games hosted by Moscow from September 1-7. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, 50,000 troops and 5,000 weapons units, including 140 aircraft and 60 warships partake in the drills. Soldiers from China, Laos, Mongolia, Nicaragua, Syria, and Tajikistan are also joining the exercises that will stretch into the Sea of Japan. 

At the same time, India is involved in the Pitch Black 2022 war games. Hosted by Australia, the military exercises include 17 nations, over 100 aircraft and 2,500 soldiers. All four members of the anti-China The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or 'The Quad' are engaging in the drills.