After former US President Donald Trump sharply criticized India and Russia’s economic and geopolitical connections, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has categorically denied any indications of strained relations between the two countries.
Randhir Jaiswal, a MEA spokeswoman, emphasized that India’s bilateral ties are autonomous and shouldn’t be analyzed from the perspective of a third party. He emphasized the “steady and time-tested partnership” between Russia and India, pointing out in particular their defense cooperation that is informed by India’s strategic assessments and national security imperatives.
Jaiswal reiterated that India bases its defense sourcing choices entirely on these strategic requirements and not on outside influences.
This reaction followed Trump’s social media remarks in which he called India’s tariffs among the highest in the world and criticized the country for acquiring Russian energy and military hardware during the crisis in Ukraine.
Trump has threatened to impose a 25% tax on Indian imports and impose an undisclosed fine on India for its continued purchases of Russian weaponry and energy. In spite of Trump’s caustic comments, Jaiswal emphasized the close ties between the US and India, referring to it as a “comprehensive global strategic partnership” that has grown through a number of difficulties and is based on shared democratic ideals and objectives.
In terms of energy, sources indicate that Russia is still India’s largest oil supplier, making up 35–40% of imports, a sharp rise from the low levels prior to the conflict in Ukraine. India’s energy sourcing policy, according to Jaiswal, is practical and in line with global circumstances and market availability.
In response to inquiries concerning US sanctions against Indian businesses that trade with Iran and rumors that Indian companies have ceased obtaining Russian oil, Jaiswal stated that the government is closely examining the matter and is still committed to protecting the interests of the country.
Piyush Goyal, the minister of commerce and industry, said Parliament that the government is keeping a careful eye on events and giving the welfare of farmers, workers, entrepreneurs, exporters, MSMEs, and all other industrial stakeholders first priority. He promised to take the required actions to safeguard India’s interests as a nation.
Despite criticism from the outside and threats of penalties or tariffs, India has openly upheld its strong and long-standing connection with Russia. It emphasizes a separate foreign and defense strategy that puts strategic interests and national security first while maintaining a strong strategic alliance with the United States.
In order to maintain its overall national welfare and economic stability in the face of trade challenges and geopolitical tensions, India is being cautious and pragmatic about energy imports and is carefully considering the effects of any penalties.
This general position demonstrates India’s will to preserve its long-standing relations with Russia and to keep developing its diverse international alliances according to its own conditions.
