India Faces Trade Challenges as Putin Eyes Visit

India is facing growing trade challenges with the United States, particularly due to its continued purchase of discounted oil from Russia. Former US President Donald Trump has responded by imposing substantial tariffs on Indian exports. In a move likely to further impact the situation, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India before the end of the year. While the specifics of the visit have yet to be confirmed by the Indian or Russian governments, this announcement occurs amidst growing trade friction. Doval’s visit to Moscow coincided with a visit by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, where discussions covered the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Defense ties between India and Russia, including the pending delivery of the S-400 air defense batteries, were also addressed. Since 2022, India, like China, has been procuring discounted oil from Russia. Trump has targeted India with steep tariffs.