Indian Soldiers Withdrawn from Addu City Following Agreement with Gov’t

Indian soldiers stationed in Addu City as part of the operation involving donated helicopters have departed from the area, in adherence to a bilateral agreement between the Maldives and India.

Confirming the withdrawal, a spokesperson from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) stated that all Indian military personnel previously based in Addu City have vacated the premises, thereby indicating the absence of Indian military presence within the city.

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Earlier disclosures from the Maldivian government had indicated the presence of approximately 25 Indian soldiers in Addu City.

Additionally, Indian military personnel stationed in L. Kadhdhoo and HDh. Hanimaadhoo are also scheduled to depart from the islands prior to May 10th.

The Maldivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has highlighted that through diplomatic negotiations, both parties have reached an understanding whereby India will replace military personnel with technical civilians in one of the three aviation platforms by March 10th, with the remaining two platforms to see similar replacements by May 10th.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who had campaigned on a platform including the removal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives, swiftly initiated the fulfilment of this promise upon assuming office. Notably, a formal request for troop withdrawal was made to the Indian government a day after his inauguration.