India-Russia Ties: Moscow Says Attempts to Break Relations Will Fail Amid Growing Tariff Pressure
Amid escalating trade tensions and tariff-related disputes, Russia has strongly defended its long-standing relationship with India. In a firm statement, Moscow emphasized that efforts to weaken or disrupt India-Russia relations will never succeed, as their partnership is deeply rooted in mutual respect, sovereignty, and national interests.
According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the Indo-Russian relationship has always been characterized by reliability, predictability, and strategic depth. These ties, built over decades, have consistently stood the test of time, overcoming global political challenges, shifting alliances, and external pressures from the West.
US Pressure and Tariff War
The latest strain on India’s trade relations came after the United States imposed a 50 percent tariff on Indian goods, accusing New Delhi of indirectly supporting Russia by purchasing its oil and defense equipment. The US administration also alleged that India’s continued oil imports from Russia were “helping fund” the Ukraine war.
Not stopping there, Washington has been pressing its G7 allies to impose additional trade restrictions on Indian exports, further increasing the economic burden. These measures have been perceived in India as politically motivated attempts to influence New Delhi’s independent foreign policy decisions.
Russia’s Response to US and Western Pressure
In response to media queries about the rising tariff pressure on India, the Russian Foreign Ministry reiterated its support for New Delhi, stating that India’s firm stand against external coercion reflects the true spirit of Indo-Russian friendship.
The ministry highlighted that India continues to display strategic autonomy in its foreign policy, choosing decisions that prioritize its sovereignty and national interests over external influence. Moscow added that the Indo-Russian partnership is not just about trade but extends to multiple areas of cooperation, including:
- Civilian and defense production projects
- Joint space exploration and manned missions
- Peaceful nuclear energy collaboration
- Oil and energy cooperation, including Russian oil imports
- Development of new payment systems and use of national currencies
- Strengthening transport and logistics routes outside Western dominance
According to Moscow, these initiatives reflect the multi-dimensional and future-oriented nature of the relationship between the two nations.
India Rejects US Allegations
India has categorically rejected Washington’s allegations that its oil trade with Russia contributes to the Ukraine conflict. New Delhi clarified that its decisions are guided by energy security needs and economic stability, not by political alignments. Indian officials have also termed the US accusations as baseless, illogical, and unfair.
Despite the friction, recent reports suggest that negotiations are underway between India and the US to ease trade tensions. Diplomatic sources indicate that both countries are still exploring possibilities for a trade deal that balances American concerns with India’s strategic independence.
A Partnership Built to Last
For Russia, India remains one of its most trusted partners in Asia. Moscow’s latest statement clearly warns that every attempt to break this bond—whether through tariffs, sanctions, or political pressure—will ultimately fail.
The Indo-Russian relationship continues to evolve, adapting to new global realities while staying anchored in a shared vision of sovereignty, respect, and long-term cooperation.
