Amidst escalating trade tensions between India and the United States, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Thursday. This visit, which was pre-scheduled, has gained significant importance due to the timing, coinciding with the Trump administration's decision to impose an additional 25% tariff on Indian exports in response to India's continued crude oil imports from Russia. The total tariff has now reached 50%.
Doval's visit to Moscow underscores India's delicate balancing act in maintaining its long-standing strategic partnership with Russia while navigating increasing pressure from Western nations, particularly the United States. India and Russia have reiterated their commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership amidst global uncertainties. Doval emphasized the "very special relationship" and the importance of the strategic partnership between the two countries. Sergey Shoigu, the Russian Security Council Secretary, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the "time-tested ties of friendship" and the mutual desire to promote a unifying agenda based on "mutual respect, trust, equal consideration of each other's interests".
The discussions between Doval and Putin, as well as with other senior Russian officials, focused on bolstering strategic and economic cooperation. Regular dialogues on bilateral and regional issues between the Security Councils of both countries contribute to elevating India-Russia relations amidst the complex international environment.
A key highlight of the meeting was the discussion surrounding Putin's potential visit to India later in 2025 for the annual India-Russia Summit. Doval indicated that the dates for the visit are nearing finalization. This visit would be Putin's first to India since December 2021 and is expected to further solidify the strategic partnership between the two nations. The leaders are also likely to meet at the SCO Summit in China.
The backdrop to this meeting is the escalating trade war between the US and India, triggered by India's continued import of Russian oil. The US move is widely seen as a punitive measure against India for supporting Moscow amidst sanctions related to the war in Ukraine. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has affirmed India's commitment to protecting its national interests and its farmers, even if it means paying a heavy price.
The timing of Doval's visit and the imposition of tariffs by the US highlight the complexities of India's foreign policy. India has maintained an independent stance, prioritizing its energy and defense needs while engaging with both Russia and the West. This position is based on its long-term strategic interests and its desire to maintain a multi-aligned approach in a rapidly changing global order.
Looking ahead, the India-Russia partnership is expected to deepen, with a focus on enhanced cooperation in various sectors, including defense, energy, and trade. Putin's anticipated visit to India will provide an opportunity to further strengthen these ties and explore new avenues for collaboration. Simultaneously, India will need to navigate the challenges posed by the US trade policies and seek to resolve the disputes through dialogue and diplomatic channels. The situation remains dynamic, and the coming months will be crucial in shaping the future of India's relationships with both the US and Russia.
