Peace With Pakistan Impossible, Says Former RAW Chief Vikram Sood

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Jan 11, 2026: Former Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) chief Vikram Sood on Friday asserted that compromise or negotiation with Pakistan is futile and that peace with the neighbouring country is impossible.

Speaking in conversation with Sriparna Pathak at a session titled “Great Power Games” during the 8th Mangaluru Lit Fest, Mr. Sood said India has consistently supported its neighbours such as Sri Lanka and Bangladesh during times of crisis, but receives no such backing when it faces difficulties. “When India faces a crisis, no one stands by us,” he observed.

Referring to global conflicts, Mr. Sood criticised the United States for what he termed repeated interventions. “First Ukraine, then Israel, and now Venezuela. The U.S. appears intent on creating problems across the world, operating with the belief that it has a President who can fix everything,” he said.

Emphasising the importance of strength for governance, he said military capability and power were essential for a nation to assert itself globally. He noted that China had dealt a significant economic blow to the U.S. by becoming self-reliant in manufacturing. “Despite possessing a massive military and nuclear power, the U.S. has not directly won any war. Its decline began with the 1945 attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki,” he added.

On India’s relations with the U.S. and China, Mr. Sood said neither country had stood by India in times of need. He stressed that India must engage with both nations pragmatically and strengthen its own governance and decision-making. “India must reach a stage where it does not have to ask anyone for assistance,” he said.

Citing recent developments, Mr. Sood pointed to the Balakot airstrike, the Uri counterattack and Operation Sindoor as examples of India asserting its position. “We must establish our stance more firmly on the international front. If we do not rise now, we may never be able to do so,” he said.