EAM Jaishankar to Visit Russia Amid US Trade Tensions
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will visit Moscow next week for talks with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov and other top leaders. The visit comes days after NSA Ajit Doval's trip and amid strained US-India ties over New Delhi's continued purchase of Russian crude oil, which recently prompted new US tariffs. The discussions are expected to cover the bilateral agenda, the Ukraine conflict, and finalise plans for President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to India.
Unpacked:
India relies on Russian crude oil to meet its growing energy needs at affordable prices, especially as Russia offers significant discounts. This helps India manage inflation and energy security. Despite US pressure and the risk of sanctions, India asserts its strategic autonomy and prioritizes national economic interests over external pressures.
India and Russia cooperate in defense, energy (including nuclear and crude oil), technology, trade, and space exploration. Their partnership also extends to multilateral forums like BRICS and SCO. Both sides are expanding cooperation in digital technology, AI, and satellite navigation, while ongoing arms deals like the S-400 air defense system remain significant.
The Ukraine conflict led to increased Western sanctions on Russia, complicating payment mechanisms and causing delays in defense equipment deliveries. However, trade has grown, with Russia becoming a top crude oil supplier to India. India maintains a careful diplomatic stance, calling for dialogue while prioritizing its strategic interests with both Russia and the West.
President Putin’s visit is expected to reaffirm the ‘Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership’ and set the agenda for future cooperation. It will likely address energy trade, defense collaboration, and regional security, while also demonstrating the continued strength of India-Russia ties amid global geopolitical shifts and external pressures.