In a development highlighting the shifting tectonics of global power politics, a top Russian security official has underscored the need to further solidify the “special and privileged strategic partnership” between Moscow and New Delhi — a relationship rooted in decades of trust, mutual respect, and shared geopolitical visions.
Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu, during high-level talks with Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval in Moscow on Thursday, made it clear that the Russia-India bond was not just surviving but thriving, even as Washington ramps up pressure on New Delhi to align with its foreign policy directives.
Russia and India are linked by strong, trusting, time-tested bonds of friendship,” Shoigu affirmed.
“For our country, the comprehensive strengthening of the special privileged strategic partnership with India — based on mutual respect, equal consideration of each other’s interests, and the desire to advance a unifying agenda — is of paramount importance.”
Shoigu emphasized that both nations are united in the pursuit of a “new, more just and sustainable world order”, one that prioritizes the supremacy of international law and fosters joint action against common threats such as terrorism, instability, and economic coercion.
India Responds with Gratitude — and Resolve
Ajit Doval conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appreciation for Moscow’s solidarity following the April terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 civilian lives.
“I would also like to thank you and Russia, and particularly President Putin,” Doval said, making it clear that New Delhi sees Moscow not merely as a defense partner, but as a steadfast ally in times of crisis.
Doval also hinted at major diplomatic milestones ahead, revealing that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India is “almost finalized” and will likely take place by the end of the year for the annual bilateral summit.
Additionally, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to travel to Moscow later this month for further strategic consultations.
Washington’s Push — and India’s Defiance
Doval’s Moscow visit comes at a moment of heightened strain between India and the United States. The friction stems from New Delhi’s decision to continue purchasing Russian oil — a move Washington views as undermining its sanctions campaign against Moscow.
In an aggressive escalation, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed an executive order slapping an additional 25% tariff on imports from India, effectively doubling tariffs on most Indian exports to a punishing 50%. The stated reason: India’s refusal to reduce oil trade with Russia.
New Delhi has called the US measures “extremely unfortunate” and has made it clear that it will act firmly to protect its national interests. For India, the issue transcends economics — it’s about strategic autonomy in a multipolar world.
A Changing Global Order
This diplomatic exchange takes place against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving international system, where the unipolar moment of American dominance is under unprecedented strain.
While Washington still seeks to “call the shots” in global trade, security, and resource flows, emerging powers like India are increasingly unwilling to subordinate their strategic choices to US pressure.
Russia and India, both wary of unilateral sanctions and extraterritorial diktats, are drawing closer not just out of nostalgia for Cold War-era ties, but out of a shared interest in reshaping the rules of global engagement. The Moscow talks underline a simple truth: in the new age of multipolarity, alliances are built on mutual respect, not coercion.
With Putin’s visit to New Delhi looming, and both nations committing to deepen cooperation in defense, energy, and technology, the coming months could mark a significant chapter in the recalibration of global power, one in which India signals that it will not be a mere pawn in another nation’s geopolitical chessboard.
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