External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has delivered a sharp assessment of the changing global order, describing the United States as having “deliberately become a lonelier power” while highlighting China’s rise. Speaking at the Munich Leaders Meeting in New Delhi, Jaishankar also defended India’s longstanding ties with Russia and recalled Moscow’s support for India, including during periods when Western countries backed Pakistan. His remarks come as India navigates increasingly complex ties with Washington, Moscow and Beijing. Jaishankar also pointed to growing cooperation among emerging and middle powers as global competition reshapes international partnerships and the balance of power.