A drone training case in Myanmar has triggered a sharp diplomatic clash, with Ukraine accusing India’s probe of being influenced by a Russian intelligence tip-off.
A diplomatic dispute has emerged in New Delhi after the arrest of six Ukrainian nationals and one American citizen by India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA). The Ukrainian Embassy has responded. It has called the case “possibly orchestrated.” It has also suggested that the arrests may be linked to intelligence shared by Russian authorities. Kyiv believes such actions could harm relations between Ukraine and India.
The arrests took place on March 13. The NIA conducted coordinated raids in Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata. The accused include American citizen Matthew Aaron Van Dyke. Authorities describe him as a “mercenary” and filmmaker. A Delhi court has placed all seven individuals in NIA custody until March 27 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The Allegations: Drones, Insurgents, and Illegal Entry
The NIA has outlined a cross-border operation. Investigators say the group entered India on tourist visas. They later traveled to Mizoram without a Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
From Mizoram, the group allegedly crossed into Myanmar without authorization. The NIA claims they trained Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) in Chin State. These groups are believed to support insurgent networks active in India’s Northeast.
The alleged activities include:
- Drone Warfare Training: Assembly and operation of unmanned aerial vehicles
- Electronic Warfare: Use of jamming systems to disrupt communications
- Logistics and Smuggling: Movement of drone consignments from Europe to Myanmar via India
The “Russian Tip-Off” Controversy
The case has gained attention due to reports of a Russian intelligence tip-off. Investigators are said to have tracked the group for three months based on inputs from Moscow.
The Ukrainian Embassy has rejected this claim. It has described the case as politically motivated.
“It is Russia, as an aggressor state, that seeks under every circumstance to drive a wedge between friendly countries – Ukraine and India,” the embassy said.
Ukraine has asked for transparency and due process. It has referred to the 2003 Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters. Officials have raised concerns about legal procedures. They have questioned whether detainees were presented before a magistrate within 24 hours. They have also asked if translation support was provided.
A High-Profile American Connection
Matthew Aaron Van Dyke’s involvement adds complexity to the case. He is known for his presence in global conflict zones. He previously fought in the 2011 Libyan Civil War. He later participated in operations against ISIS in Iraq.
Investigators are examining his digital records. Social media content linked to him suggests involvement in political and military activities in several countries. One reported post contains direct warnings to governments in Venezuela, Myanmar, Iran, and Russia.
India’s Diplomatic Tightrope
India faces a sensitive situation. It maintains strategic ties with Russia. It also engages diplomatically with Ukraine. Relations with Kyiv improved after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit in August 2024.
The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed a request for consular access. Officials have stated that the matter is under investigation.
“This is a legal matter. The relevant agencies are investigating it,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
India’s primary focus remains national security. The NIA argues that any support to Myanmar-based armed groups poses a threat to the Northeast.
What’s Next?
The NIA is continuing its interrogation. The custody period runs for 11 days. The case is under close international observation.
The outcome may influence India’s security approach toward foreign nationals. It may also test India’s diplomatic balance in a polarized global environment.
