India and Russia to Discuss Strategic Partnership as US Tariffs Loom

Amidst rising trade tensions with the United States, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will travel to Moscow to meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on August 21, as announced by MFA Russia. This meeting is designed to reinforce the strategic alliance between India and Russia following the US’s move to increase tariffs on Indian imports. The US action was a response to India’s continued procurement of Russian crude oil, which the US alleges is supporting Moscow’s military actions in Ukraine. Before this, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, just days before the initial tariff of 25% was imposed on Indian exports, later increased to 50%. The Kremlin released video of the meeting, though specifics were not detailed. A visit from Putin to India is expected before the end of 2025. In a separate move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to communicate India’s consistent position, emphasizing the necessity of a peaceful resolution. He highlighted India’s commitment to making every possible contribution toward this and also strengthening its ties with Ukraine.