White House Dismisses Russia's Claims of US Interference in India's Elections

John Kirby, the White House national security communications adviser, called allegations of US interference in India's 18th Lok Sabha elections 'ridiculous.' Kirby's comments came during a press briefing, countering claims by Russian officials that the US aimed to disrupt India's political landscape.

John Kirby, the White House's national security communications adviser, dismissed allegations made by a senior Russian official that the United States had interfered in India's 18th Lok Sabha elections as 'ridiculous.' Kirby made these remarks during a press briefing alongside White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday.

Responding to claims from a senior Russian official in May that the US was attempting to meddle in India's elections, Kirby stated categorically, 'It's not true! It's a ridiculous claim.' Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova had alleged in May that the United States aimed to disrupt India's parliamentary elections by destabilizing the country's internal political landscape.

Kirby additionally addressed Russia's alleged attempts to interfere in the upcoming 2024 US presidential election. 'The Department of Justice, the Department of Treasury, and the State Department have coordinated actions against foreign actors associated with the Russian government who are trying to covertly influence our elections,' he said. The US government has identified RT (Russia Today) as a propaganda tool used by Russia to influence elections and shape policies in the US and other countries.

(With inputs from agencies.)