Maldivian President Announces Withdrawal of Indian Troops Before May 10

In his inaugural parliamentary address, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu stated that the first group of Indian military personnel would be withdrawn from the Maldives before March 10, with the remaining troops on two aviation platforms to be pulled out by May 10. President Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, emphasized his commitment to removing foreign military presence in line with the expectations of the majority of Maldivians and reclaiming lost oceanic territory.

He asserted that his administration would not enter into agreements compromising the nation’s sovereignty. While diplomatic discussions are ongoing, India confirmed on February 2 that mutually agreeable solutions were reached to continue the operations of Indian aviation platforms, mainly involved in humanitarian and medical evacuation services in the Maldives.