India’s National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval has travelled to Moscow as US President Donald Trump tightens his stance against India-Russia ties. His visit began on Wednesday and focuses mainly on expanding defence and industrial cooperation between the two countries.
This move comes just as President Trump raised tariffs on Indian imports by 25%, pushing the total rate to 50%. The tariff hike is aimed at punishing India for continuing to buy oil from Russia despite ongoing tensions over the Ukraine war.
Talks on advanced weapons and joint projects
Doval's visit is expected to cover several high-priority military matters. According to The Economic Times, India and Russia will discuss the purchase of more S-400 missile defence systems. They may also talk about setting up MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) facilities in India for the S-400 systems.
Talks are also likely to include India’s potential involvement in Russia’s Su-57 fighter jet project, a fifth-generation combat aircraft.
Previous success of India-Russia military cooperation
Indian officials believe the current global situation calls for even closer ties with Russia. India sees Russian defence systems as vital. The S-400 missile defence system was key in Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. That operation came two weeks after a terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people.
During that four-day military standoff with Pakistan, BrahMos missiles, co-developed by India and Russia, were also used. Their deployment reportedly shocked the Pakistani military.
High-level meetings expected
Before Doval’s visit, Indian ambassador Vinay Kumar met Russia’s Deputy Defence Minister, Colonel-General Alexander Fomin, to prepare the ground.
Doval is also expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin during his trip.
Visit coincides with US envoy’s Moscow trip
Interestingly, the visit overlaps with a trip by US special envoy Steven Witkoff, who is also in Moscow. This is Witkoff’s fifth trip to Russia this year, showing rising US interest in Russia’s international dealings.
A Russian source told The Economic Times, “The current escalation of the geopolitical situation will also be discussed. Apart from that, the topics will include such pressing matters as supplies of Russian oil [to India].”
India stands firm amid rising US pressure
The timing of Doval’s visit is significant. Just hours earlier, President Trump imposed new tariffs on India. His administration continues to oppose India’s oil trade with Russia, especially after the Ukraine conflict began.
Despite this pressure, India appears determined to continue its strategic and energy ties with Russia, focusing on self-reliance and security needs.