India Defends Time-Tested Russia Ties Amid US Tariff Threats

India has strongly defended its long-standing and time-tested relationship with Russia amid criticism and tariff threats from US President Donald Trump, who targeted India's purchase of Russian oil and military equipment. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that India's ties with any country are based on national interests and merit, not influenced by third-party perspectives, and confirmed that India’s defense and energy cooperation with Russia aligns with its strategic needs. Despite Trump's sharp remarks and the imposition of a 25% tariff on Indian goods starting August 7, India reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strong ties with the United States, highlighting the resilient partnership founded on shared democratic values and mutual interests. Jaiswal also noted that India's energy sourcing depends on global market availability and that no official pause on Russian oil imports has been confirmed. While India is carefully evaluating US sanctions affecting trade with Russia and Iran, it remains committed to an independent foreign policy guided by its national interests. Overall, India seeks to balance its relations with both Russia and the United States amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.