Russian and Indian officials met in Moscow on Thursday to reaffirm their “strategic partnership,” despite rising tensions due to the U.S. imposing a 25% tariff on Indian goods from August 28.
This tariff is part of a wider U.S. response to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, raising the total duty on Indian imports to 50%.
Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met with Sergei Shoigu, secretary of Russia’s Security Council.
Both highlighted the significance of their cooperation, with Shoigu stating, “We are committed to further active cooperation in order to form a new, more just and sustainable world order, ensure the supremacy of international law, and jointly combat modern challenges and threats.”
India and China have become the top buyers of Russian seaborne crude oil since February 2022. Western sanctions aim to choke Russia’s economy, complicating India’s trade relations, especially with the U.S.
The Kremlin criticized the U.S. for “illegal trade pressure” on India, affirming India’s right to trade with any country.
Indian state refiners have reduced Russian oil purchases due to narrowing discounts and U.S. warnings, though private firms like Reliance Industries remain major buyers. Although India has diversified arms suppliers, Russia remains a key partner.
President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India by the end of the year, further strengthening the strategic partnership.
