Ajit Doval to Discuss Defence Ties in Moscow Amid US-India Trade Tensions Over Russian Oil
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is set to arrive in Moscow late Wednesday night for crucial discussions with senior Russian officials. The agenda includes strengthening defense ties, addressing oil sanctions, and preparing for President Vladimir Putin's anticipated visit to India later this year. This visit coincides with U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to significantly increase tariffs on Indian goods to 25%, effective Thursday, in retaliation for India's ongoing purchase of Russian oil.
On Thursday, Doval is expected to assess the status of the remaining S-400 missile systems' delivery, which were pivotal during the India-Pakistan conflict and Operation Sindoor in May. The discussions will also touch upon Russia's recent recognition of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan and explore potential steps towards initiating Russia-Ukraine peace talks.
The Kremlin has criticized Washington's actions, accusing it of exerting "illegal trade pressure" on India. Presidential aide Dmitry Peshkov emphasized that sovereign nations have the autonomy to choose their trade partners independently.
India has notably increased its oil imports from Russia, escalating from less than 1% in early 2022 to nearly 40% at its peak, despite Western appeals to curtail such purchases. Although some importers have reduced their orders following the U.S. announcement of penalty tariffs last week, the Ministry of External Affairs labeled the sanctions as "unjustified and unreasonable," pointing out that both the U.S. and the EU continue engaging in trade with Russia in other areas.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is anticipated to visit Moscow later this month to finalize the Modi-Putin summit arrangements, which resumed last year after a three-year pause due to the Ukraine conflict.
