India and Russia
Trade relations between India and Russia are continuously strengthening. Despite warnings and pressure from America, India is expanding its economic ties with Russia, especially in the fields of energy, agriculture, medicine and manufacturing. India is no longer keeping its commercial dependence only on oil, but is expanding into many new sectors.
Preparation for new defense deal with Russia
There is talk of a deal worth about Rs 10,000 crore between India and Russia, under which the Air Force will get new missiles for the S-400 Sudarshan Air Defense System. It is being told that these missiles played an important role in downing 6-7 Pakistani fighter and spy planes in Operation Sindoor. The Defense Ministry meeting will discuss this proposal on October 23.
Non-energy trade also increased
India no longer wants to depend only on oil or gas. Exports of medicines, machinery, electronic goods and agricultural products from India to Russia have increased. During April to August this year (fiscal year 2025-26), the export of marine products, fresh fruits-vegetables and processed foods has increased rapidly. Exports of marine products increased from $58.2 million to $72.7 million. Fresh vegetables reached $2.6 million to $5 million. Processed vegetables increased from $12.2 million to $17.1 million. It is clear from this that India is now moving beyond traditional products and opening new avenues of trade.
America’s pressure and Trump’s statement
US President Donald Trump has claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has promised to reduce oil purchases from Russia. He said in the Diwali program, Modi will not buy more oil, he also wants the Russia-Ukraine war to end. However, Modi responded to Trump’s wishes on social media but did not comment on this claim.
Impact of America’s heavy tariffs
America has imposed tariffs (import duties) of up to 50% on Indian exports. Due to this, India’s exports to America have declined by 37.5% in four months. It declined to $5.5 billion in September compared to $8.8 billion in May 2025. Despite this, India’s economy is stable. According to the IMF report, India’s GDP is expected to grow by 6.6% in the financial year 2026.
exploring new markets
Amidst America’s strictures, India has increased trade in 24 new countries – which include countries like UAE, Germany, Vietnam, Brazil, Poland, Thailand and Nigeria. The value of exports sent to these countries was $129.3 billion, which is about 59% of India’s total exports.
Partnership continues in energy and defense
India’s partnership with Russia is not limited to just trade. In the defense sector, after the S-400 system, talks are also going on on S-500 and BrahMos missiles. Russian President Vladimir Putin may visit India in December. Overall, despite US pressure and increased tariffs, India has shown that it will set its own economic and strategic direction — by strengthening ties with Russia and exploring new markets in the rest of the world.