Strengthening India-Russia Relations
On Friday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke on the phone. Modi and Putin discuss stronger ties, aiming to strengthen the long-standing friendship between India and Russia. This discussion happened against the backdrop of new tariffs imposed by the United States on Indian imports, especially for buying Russian oil.
Background of the Phone Call
The phone call came right after Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva had a discussion with Modi about the US tariffs. Modi shared on X, ‘Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine.’
Modi emphasized the progress in their partnership and reaffirmed their commitment to deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. He expressed his enthusiasm about hosting President Putin in India later this year.
Meetings Leading Up to the Call
This phone conversation followed a meeting held a day earlier between India’s National Security Adviser, Ajit Doval, and senior Russian officials in Moscow. Doval mentioned that the partnership has a ‘very special role’ in today’s world full of uncertainties.
Sergey Shoigu, Putin’s counterpart, stated that Russia wants to work closely with India to ensure a ‘more just’ world and to jointly tackle modern challenges.
Impact of US Tariffs
On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump signed an order that imposes a 25% tariff on India for its ongoing purchases of Russian oil. This penalty is in addition to another 25% tariff that began on Thursday.
Trump has criticized India and Russia recently due to their trade and energy relations. He strongly urged India to reduce its imports of Russian oil. Russia supplies a significant portion of India’s military needs, accounting for nearly 60% of India’s armed forces’ inventory. Additionally, in the first half of 2025, Russia is expected to meet 35% of India’s energy requirements.
India’s Stance on Energy Imports
India has defended its energy purchases from Russia. Officials have criticized the US and the European Union for targeting India while other nations continue to buy Russian energy without penalties. An Indian source stated that no other country buying Russian oil faced such tariffs.
Adequate Insight on Current Events
After their conversation, an Indian statement mentioned that Putin briefed Modi about the latest developments regarding Ukraine. Modi thanked Putin for the detailed information and reiterated India’s consistent view that the conflict should be resolved peacefully.
Modi has invited Putin to India later this year for the 23rd India-Russia Summit, indicating their intention to enhance collaboration further. Doval mentioned that the dates for this visit are almost finalized.
US-Russia Diplomatic Relations
On the same day as the phone call, the Kremlin released a statement saying that during his meeting with special envoy Steven Witkoff, Putin provided an update on key matters concerning US-Russia relations.
Both Modi and Putin discussed significant bilateral issues, such as trade, economy, and investment. Witkoff and Putin agreed that a future meeting between Putin and Trump could change their relations to become ‘totally different, mutually beneficial.’
Commitment to Farmers and National Interests
Modi responded to Trump’s tariffs by prioritizing the interests of Indian farmers. He stated, ‘The interests of our farmers are our topmost priority. India will never compromise the interests of its farmers, its cattle rearers, and fisherfolk.’
Modi acknowledged that he might face personal sacrifices for his stand on farmers’ welfare, saying he was prepared to pay any price. The Indian government has also condemned Trump’s actions, calling them ‘unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.’ They promised to safeguard national interests amidst the widening rift with the US.
The Future of India-US Relations
Even as tensions rise due to tariffs, both India and the U.S. have built a strong relationship over the past two decades. Many people believe that both nations will work hard to retain the progress they have made together.
The differing approaches to trade and energy may not change the overall process of working together. An insider remarked that both countries have invested significantly in their relationship and wouldn’t want to see that effort go to waste.
Conclusion
As Modi and Putin strengthen their partnership, the world watches closely. The outcome of their discussions might shape not just India and Russia’s futures, but also how the global community responds to changing alliances and trade relationships. 🌍
