Despite mounting economic pressure from the United States over oil imports from Russia, India has reaffirmed its strategic partnership with Moscow. In response to President Donald Trump’s decision to impose an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods—raising the total import duty to 50%—India has opted to deepen its cooperation with Russia rather than back down.
On Monday, the 11th session of the India-Russia Working Group on Modernization and Industrial Cooperation was held in New Delhi. During the meeting, both countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing collaboration in key sectors including aluminium, fertilizers, railways, and mining technology. The agreement also includes joint efforts in the development and utilization of rare earth elements.
Russia has voiced strong support for India in the face of U.S. tariffs. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov criticized Washington’s attempts to pressure countries into severing trade ties with Russia. “We hear many statements that amount to threats, efforts to force countries to abandon commercial relations with Russia. We do not consider such statements legitimate,” he said.
India, in turn, has condemned Trump’s tariff move in strong terms. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs called the U.S. decision “unfair, unreasonable, and unacceptable,” reaffirming that India will do whatever is necessary to protect its national interests. The ministry also described the increase to a 50% tariff as “deeply regrettable.”
By signing the MoU with Russia and openly rejecting U.S. pressure, India has sent a clear diplomatic signal: it will pursue its own strategic path, guided by national interest, regardless of external pressures.
Sources: Financial Express, CNBC-TV18, Hindustan Times