India preps for BRICS summit as US Army joint exercise kicks off
As India prepares to host Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit on September 12-13, the US Army has begun its annual joint military exercise with Indian forces. The Yudh Abhyas exercise, running from September 10 to 23, will be conducted across Uttarakhand and the Thar Desert in Rajasthan.
US Army (Pacific) Deputy Commanding General Javi Vowel stated the exercise aims to build trust, share information, and demonstrate commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. US Ambassador Sergio Veras is also expected to attend the final phase. The exercise marks the 22nd edition of India-US military cooperation, which has been conducted annually since 2004.
