Amid escalating tensions fueled by former President Trump's tariff policies, Russia has affirmed its unwavering commitment to its relationship with India, stating that any attempts to undermine their ties are destined to fail. This declaration comes in response to Trump's recent imposition of unprecedented duties on most Indian products, including an initial 25% tariff, with an additional 25% introduced as a "penalty" for India's continued purchases of Russian oil and defense equipment.

The Russian Foreign Ministry, in a statement to RT, lauded India for its steadfast cooperation with Moscow, despite facing external pressure to sever ties. The ministry expressed its appreciation for India's commitment to continue and expand multifaceted cooperation with Russia, emphasizing that such a stance is entirely expected. Russia-India relations are "steadily and confidently advancing," the ministry asserted, adding that "any attempt to obstruct this process is destined to fail".

Moscow highlighted that New Delhi's approach to its relationship with Russia, despite Western criticism, reflects the "spirit and traditions of long-standing Russia-India friendship" and embodies "strategic autonomy in international affairs". The partnership between the two nations is built upon "the highest value of sovereignty and the primacy of national interests," which explains the relationship's "reliable, predictable, and truly strategic in nature".

This strong relationship is underpinned by large-scale joint projects across various sectors, including civilian and military production, manned space missions, nuclear power, and Indian investments in Russian oil exploration projects. Furthermore, both countries are actively collaborating on payment systems, expanding the use of national currencies, and creating alternative transport and logistics routes, signaling a long-term commitment that extends beyond immediate geopolitical concerns.

Trump's decision to impose tariffs on India has been criticized for straining relations between the two countries. Talks aimed at reducing these tariffs have reportedly stalled due to India's reluctance to open its agricultural and dairy sectors. Despite the rift, there are indications that Trump may be considering a potential reset, with his nominee for ambassador to India suggesting that progress is likely. However, Trump himself has acknowledged that the tariffs have "caused a rift with India".

The situation has placed India in a precarious position, caught between pressure from the United States to reduce its engagement with Russia and Russia's expectation that India will maintain existing relationships. The Kremlin has decried attempts to force countries to cease trading with Russia as illegal, asserting that nations have the right to choose their own trade partners.

Despite these challenges, Russia has consistently expressed its support for India and its role in global affairs. President Vladimir Putin has lauded India's "well-deserved authority" on the international stage and its active participation in resolving critical international matters. He has also affirmed Russia's commitment to strengthening the "special privileged strategic partnership" between the two nations, expressing confidence that joint efforts will continue to bolster constructive bilateral cooperation across diverse sectors, promoting regional and global security.

The enduring strength of the India-Russia relationship is rooted in a history of close ties, dating back to the Cold War era. Both countries share a vision of a multipolar world order and actively collaborate within international forums such as the UN, BRICS, G20, and SCO. Russia has also voiced its support for India receiving a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.