Maldives' New President Requests India to Withdraw Troops

Muizzu's Move Seen as Part of Pro-China Stance Amid Regional Power Struggle

Newly inaugurated Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has officially requested India to withdraw its military personnel from the Maldives, a move seen as part of his pro-China stance.
The exact number of Indian troops in the Maldives is not publicly known, but they are known to operate two Indian-donated helicopters and assist in search and rescue operations.
Muizzu's election was seen as a referendum on whether China or India should have the most influence in the Maldives, with both nations vying for strategic control in the Indian Ocean archipelago.
Muizzu has also pledged to balance trade, which he claims was heavily in favor of India under his predecessor, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
Despite his request for Indian troop withdrawal, Muizzu has stated that he intends to maintain good relations with all countries, including India, and avoid entanglement in geopolitical disputes.