India's Balancing Act
Russia Ties vs. US Partnership
India's deep ties with Russia — rooted in the Soviet-era 1971 Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation — have persisted despite India's closer engagement with the US since 2005 (NSSIA). India continues to purchase Russian defence equipment (S-400, T-90 tanks, MiG/Su aircraft), import Russian oil, and engage through platforms like SCO and BRICS. However, Russia's intelligence support to Iran — which directly threatened Indian citizens and interests in the Gulf — created a new tension in India's Russia policy.
- 1971 Indo-Soviet Treaty: provided India with Soviet diplomatic cover during the 1971 Bangladesh War.
- 2008 India-US Nuclear Deal (123 Agreement): a turning point in US-India strategic convergence.
- India-Russia bilateral trade: ~$66 billion in FY 2023-24 (dominated by oil and defence).
- S-400 procurement: India is the only US-aligned country that purchased S-400 (risking CAATSA sanctions).
- India abstained on Russia-related UN votes (Ukraine), but has consistently called for ceasefire and diplomacy.
- India's dilemma: condemning Russia's Iran support would strain Moscow ties; silence risks US perception of complicity.
● Tracked since March 07, 2026 · last seen April 14, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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