After Donald Trump’s claims about India halting Russian oil purchases sparked a diplomatic row, Russia has played its strongest card: defense. Ambassador Denis Alipov announced a major expansion of military cooperation, including offers for the Su-57 fighter and drones.
The spat began when Trump claimed PM Modi “assured” him of a stop to the oil trade. The US has already imposed 50% tariffs on India, partly as a penalty for this trade.
India’s MEA responded by citing “consumer interests,” while Russia’s Alipov called the oil “beneficial.”
But the main Russian response was the defense announcement. Alipov reaffirmed the 60-year partnership, responsible for 70% of India’s hardware, and detailed the new high-tech offers.
This strategic move shifts the conversation from the contentious oil trade to the “unique” and “battle-tested” military alliance, reminding India of Russia’s deep-rooted importance to its national security.