PM Modi Cancels Europe Tour Following Operation Sindoor Strikes in Pakistan and PoK
In the aftermath of India’s military action under ‘Operation Sindoor,’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cancelled his upcoming three-nation Europe tour.
The visit, which was set to begin in mid-May and include Croatia, Norway, and the Netherlands, has been shelved as tensions escalate following the strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Strategic Shift Amid Security Concerns
While the government has not provided an official explanation for the cancellation, the decision aligns with India’s renewed security focus.
The move indicates a likely recalibration of diplomatic priorities, with attention redirected to domestic and regional stability following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that prompted ‘Operation Sindoor.’
The Indian Armed Forces launched targeted strikes in response to the deadly assault in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 civilian lives.
The military action was aimed at eliminating terror hubs used by groups including Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
India Emphasizes Measured Military Action
The Indian government confirmed that nine high-value sites were targeted in the operation, making clear that the effort was calculated, precise, and non-escalatory.
Crucially, no Pakistani military facilities were included among the targets. According to the Indian government, the objective was to dismantle infrastructure aiding terrorism without broadening the scope of conflict.
In a statement, India asserted: “Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution.”
The statement also emphasized accountability, declaring, “This government has kept its promise — those responsible will be held accountable.”
Modi Also Skips Russia’s Victory Day Celebrations
The Europe tour was not the only international commitment dropped. Prime Minister Modi also decided not to attend Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9.
The Kremlin confirmed Modi’s absence from the Moscow event, which commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noted that India would be represented at a different level during the ceremony.
Cancelled Events and Rising Tensions
Modi was scheduled to participate in the 3rd India-Nordic Summit in Oslo on May 15–16 as part of the now-cancelled European tour.
The cancellation follows a pattern of trimmed international engagements, including Modi cutting short his Saudi Arabia visit in April immediately after the Pahalgam attack.
Sources confirmed on Wednesday that all concerned governments had been notified about the cancellations shortly after the Indian military launched its precision strikes.
The situation at the Line of Control (LoC) has seen increased volatility, further reinforcing the Prime Minister’s decision to remain focused on the region.
Operation Sindoor: A Coordinated Military Effort
‘Operation Sindoor’ began at 1:44 am on Wednesday and involved a coordinated effort by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Prime Minister Modi was continuously briefed during the night and remained in contact with senior military officials and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval throughout the mission.
The Indian government reiterated that the operation was designed to avoid escalation while delivering a strong response to terrorism.
The emphasis remained on using military means selectively and responsibly, without targeting Pakistan’s military assets.
Prioritizing National Security Over Diplomacy
Prime Minister Modi’s decision to cancel the European tour underscores a shift in focus toward national and regional security amid rising tensions with Pakistan.
As India recalibrates its external engagements, it signals that counter-terrorism and the immediate security landscape will take precedence over international diplomatic commitments in the current climate.
