geopolitical shifts, international alliances, India-US relations, global diplomacy, strategic partnerships

Dear America,
Your president sacrificed Quad and revived RIC
Yours truly once upon a time
India
pic.twitter.com/4jEWqLC2W8

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— Smita Prakash (@smitaprakash) September 1, 2025

Dear America: A Reflection on Foreign Policy and Alliances

In a recent tweet that has sparked discussions across various platforms, journalist Smita Prakash addressed America directly, stating, "Dear America, Your president sacrificed Quad and revived RIC. Yours truly once upon a time, India." This succinct yet provocative statement alludes to significant geopolitical shifts and the evolving dynamics of international relations. In this summary, we will delve into the implications of Prakash’s message, examining the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) and RIC (Russia-India-China) alliances, their relevance in contemporary geopolitics, and the broader context of India’s position in these frameworks.

Understanding the Quad and RIC

The Quad, comprising the United States, India, Japan, and Australia, was established to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific. This coalition has been a response to China’s expanding influence in the region, emphasizing democratic values and mutual security. The Quad nations have engaged in various joint military exercises, shared intelligence, and collaborated on issues ranging from cybersecurity to infrastructure development.

In contrast, the RIC—an informal grouping of Russia, India, and China—has focused on trilateral cooperation in areas such as economic development, regional security, and international governance. This alliance has been viewed as a counterbalance to Western dominance in global affairs and has gained renewed attention, particularly in light of shifting alliances and geopolitical tensions.

The Sacrifice of Quad

Prakash’s assertion that "Your president sacrificed Quad" suggests that recent U.S. foreign policy may have downplayed or undermined the significance of the Quad in favor of re-engaging with RIC. This raises questions about the U.S. commitment to its allies in the Indo-Pacific and the implications of such a shift for regional security dynamics. Critics of this potential pivot argue that it could embolden China and destabilize the balance of power in the region.

The Revival of RIC

The phrase "revived RIC" points to a renewed interest in the trilateral relationship between Russia, India, and China. As the global landscape evolves, countries are increasingly looking to diversify their partnerships. The revival of RIC may indicate a strategic maneuver by nations like India to maintain its sovereignty and foster relationships that are not solely reliant on Western powers.

India’s Diplomatic Balancing Act

India’s position in this evolving landscape is particularly significant. Historically, India has walked a fine line between its alliances, maintaining strong ties with the U.S. while also engaging with Russia and China. Prakash’s tweet encapsulates this delicate balancing act, hinting at a historical narrative where India has played a crucial role in both alliances.

The Historical Context

The phrase "Yours truly once upon a time, India" evokes a sense of nostalgia and highlights India’s legacy as a leader in non-alignment and its historical role in shaping global geopolitics. This reference serves as a reminder of India’s past as a pivotal player in international relations, particularly during the Cold war era when it sought to maintain autonomy amidst superpower rivalry.

Implications for Global Politics

Prakash’s tweet raises critical questions about the future of global alliances. If the U.S. indeed sacrifices the Quad, it could lead to a realignment of power in the Indo-Pacific, with countries like India potentially leaning more towards RIC. This shift could have profound implications for global trade, security, and diplomatic relations.

Conclusion

In summary, Smita Prakash’s tweet encapsulates a critical moment in contemporary geopolitics, reflecting on the sacrifices and revivals of international alliances. The Quad and RIC represent two contrasting approaches to global cooperation, each with its own set of challenges and opportunities. As countries navigate this complex landscape, India’s role will be crucial in shaping the future of international relations.

As the world watches these developments unfold, it becomes increasingly clear that the choices made today will have lasting impacts on the geopolitical landscape for years to come. The dialogue initiated by Prakash serves as a reminder of the intricate web of alliances that define our world, urging us to consider the broader implications of our leaders’ decisions.