Post by : Raman

Russia has praised its long-standing relationship with India, saying it is steadily growing despite tensions with the United States. This comes after US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Indian imports over its purchases of Russian oil. The Russian Foreign Ministry said any attempts to harm their ties with India “will fail.”

India-Russia Friendship

According to Russian officials, India and Russia share a “reliable, predictable, and strategic” partnership. They described the relationship as reflecting “the spirit and traditions of long-standing friendship” and said it shows India’s strategic independence in global affairs.

The ministry emphasized that the partnership is built on sovereignty and national interests, meaning both countries prioritize their own national decisions while maintaining a strong friendship.

Areas of Cooperation

India and Russia are working together in many important areas:

• Civilian and military projects: Both countries collaborate on defense and technology.

• Space missions: India and Russia have joint programs for manned space missions.

• Nuclear energy: India invests in Russian nuclear projects.

• Oil exploration: Indian companies participate in oil projects in Russia.

• Financial cooperation: Both nations are exploring ways to use national currencies for trade.

• Transport and logistics: Alternative routes are being developed to strengthen trade.

This cooperation shows that India and Russia are committed to working together in multiple strategic fields, despite pressure from other nations.

US Tariffs On India

The United States recently imposed tariffs on India, adding 25% duties on Indian imports, bringing total tariffs to 50%. The move was aimed at discouraging India from buying Russian oil. Trump urged other countries in the Group of Seven (G7) to do the same.

The tariffs created a moment of tension between India and the US. Trump himself acknowledged that India and the US have a special relationship but said he did not like India’s actions at this time.

PM Modi’s Response

Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to Trump by saying he “fully reciprocates his sentiments.” Modi emphasized that India and the US have a strong and forward-looking global partnership. He also showed solidarity with Russia by attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit and sharing photos of his meetings with President Vladimir Putin.

Strategic Independence

Russia praised India for following its own path and making decisions based on national interests. Indian officials say this approach is called strategic autonomy, which allows India to cooperate with multiple countries while protecting its own priorities.

The situation highlights India’s careful balancing act: maintaining strong ties with Russia, while keeping a positive and strategic relationship with the US.

Global Implications

India’s cooperation with Russia, especially in oil and energy, shows that the country is making choices that serve its long-term economic and strategic interests. At the same time, India continues to work closely with the US on technology, trade, and defense.

Experts say this dual approach strengthens India’s global position and allows it to avoid over-dependence on any single country.

The recent statements from Russia reaffirm that India-Russia relations are strong and advancing. At the same time, India is maintaining its special partnership with the US.

The world is watching how India balances these relationships while protecting its national interests and pursuing strategic autonomy. This situation shows India’s growing role as a global player, making decisions that reflect both independence and diplomacy.

India Russia relations, US tariffs on India, Russian oil imports, India strategic autonomy, Narendra Modi Russia