India and Russia Exploring Ways to Strengthen Ties Despite U.S. Pressure: Russian Envoy

Moscow: India and Russia are actively exploring ways to strengthen their long-standing relationship, despite external pressures, particularly from the United States. Denis Alipov, Russia’s ambassador to India, said that Moscow is working to boost Indian imports from Russia, which could open new avenues for enhancing bilateral ties.

Boosting Trade and Joint Ventures

Speaking to the Russian news agency RIA Novosti, Alipov highlighted that increasing Indian imports will help expand market access for Russian agricultural products and create opportunities for joint ventures in fertilizer production. “We are finding new ways to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors,” he said, adding that these efforts aim to diversify trade and build mutually beneficial partnerships.

U.S. Pressure on Russian Oil Purchases

The ambassador’s remarks come amid renewed U.S. pressure on India not to purchase Russian oil. Following the release of the India-U.S. trade deal framework, President Donald Trump lifted punitive tariffs of 25% on Indian imports but made it clear in an executive order that India could face renewed tariffs if it directly or indirectly bought Russian crude.

Despite these pressures, Alipov noted in a recent interview with TASS that Russia remains India’s largest oil supplier. “Even with Western retaliatory measures and fluctuations in shipment volumes, Russian hydrocarbons continue to underpin India’s import requirements,” he said. He acknowledged that U.S. sanctions on Russian companies have affected redistribution at times, but cooperation with Indian partners has persisted.

Energy Security and Strategic Partnership

Russia has historically been India’s most prominent defense partner. In recent years, it has also become a reliable partner in ensuring India’s energy security. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that securing energy resources for India’s 1.4 billion people remains a priority. Diversifying energy sources, in line with market conditions and evolving international dynamics, is central to India’s long-term strategy.

Alipov added, “We are seeing another shift in the energy market, driven by local buyers’ desire to reduce risks posed by sanctions. In the past, every challenge from Western restrictions has been met with opportunities to continue mutually beneficial cooperation with Indian partners.”