New Delhi's refusal to sanction Russia over its brutal aggression against Ukraine is bitterly disappointing. But it would be unwise for the other three Quad nations to impose excessive pressure on India to drop its neutrality. Such pressure would not only be futile but could harm the strategic interests of Washington, Tokyo and Canberra.
India and Russia have a long history of friendly ties, dating back to the Cold War era. Indian policymakers assert that the country has no choice but to stay close to Russia to defend itself against an increasingly assertive China.
India's biggest worry is its border dispute with China in the Himalayas, which triggered a war between the two countries in 1962 and has flared up in armed clashes and skirmishes from time to time.
The nightmare scenario for India would be Russia siding with China in the conflict. Even if Moscow is not directly involved, any move to help China by providing intelligence or diplomatic support would seriously threaten New Delhi's security.
