Delhi–Moscow ties have a logic of their own

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 –International Relation.

Introduction

India and Russia have held a long and steady partnership that continues to evolve despite global tensions. The recent summit showed how both sides see value in each other at a time of shifting power balances, sanctions, and uncertainty. Their cooperation now covers defence, energy, trade, and strategic engagement, and reflects a shared belief in a stable and balanced global order.

India–Russia Strategic Vision in a Multipolar World

1. Stated Vision of Peace and Stability: Both sides expressed an objective of “global peace and stability in a multipolar world and a multipolar Asia”. They said this should rest on “equal and indivisible security”, challenging exclusive power arrangements and supporting a balanced global order.
2. India’s Stand on the Ukraine Conflict: India stated that it is “not neutral, but on the side of peace” in Ukraine. This allowed India to protect its diplomatic space and keep dialogue at the centre while continuing structured engagement with Russia.
3. Rejection of a G2 Order: The summit opposed the idea of dividing the world into fixed spheres of influence. It indirectly criticised attempts to shape a G2-style order built by the US and China. This approach underlines India’s interest in ensuring that no single pairing shapes global decisions.
4. Russia’s Need to Demonstrate Wider Partnerships: Russia used the summit to show that it retains major partners despite Western sanctions. Strong engagement with India helps Moscow counter isolation.
5. India’s Space in Global Politics: India signalled that its choices flow from strategic autonomy. Engagement with Russia is part of its wider approach to shape a stable multipolar environment.

Defence Cooperation and India’s Technological Sovereignty

1. Established Defence Foundation: Defence cooperation remains central to the relationship. Joint platforms like Su-30MKI and BrahMos performed effectively during Operation Sindoor, reinforcing the value of long-term collaboration.
2. Make in India as a Shared Space: Russian participation in Make in India has created new opportunities for Indian workers. The AK-203 rifle project shows how joint production can build skills and strengthen India’s manufacturing capacity. It also demonstrates Russia’s willingness to co-produce and transfer know-how.
3. Contrasts with Western Partners: Russia’s approach to technology transfer stands in contrast to the caution shown by some Western partners. The summit highlighted this difference. It showed why defence ties with Russia retain strategic weight even as India diversifies defence imports.
4. High-End Platforms and Strategic Value: The nuclear attack submarine leasing agreement reinforced the depth of the partnership. Such a platform gives India significant underwater endurance and deterrence. Very few states access these technologies, making the decision an important marker of strategic trust.

Economic Lifeline and India’s Energy Security Needs

1. Importance of Russian Oil: India became a major Russian energy customer, with 36% of its crude oil sourced from Russia last year. This supported domestic stability and helped manage inflation.
2. Sharp Growth in Trade: Bilateral trade rose nearly six times from pre-pandemic levels to $68.7 billion, reflecting the expansion of energy and economic engagement.
3. Impact of US Sanctions and Tariffs: India recently reduced its crude purchases because of US sanctions and tariff pressures. These pressures created uncertainties for India. Russia reassured India that it would continue uninterrupted fuel supplies, helping India balance its external pressures with domestic needs.
4. Civilian Nuclear Energy Cooperation: Russia remains India’s only foreign partner in clean nuclear energy. This cooperation supports India’s long-term energy goals. The summit stressed the significance of continued collaboration in nuclear infrastructure.

Note: Currently, Kudankulam is the only foreign-built nuclear power plant producing electricity in India, a contrast to stalled projects involving American and French companies which remain on paper due to pricing and liability disagreements.

5. Trade in National Currencies: Both sides increased the use of national currencies, which now cover 96 percent of bilateral trade. This shift reduces exposure to sanctions and currency risks. It also reflects a broader goal to stabilise economic ties in an uncertain global environment.

Geopolitical Balancing Between the US, Russia, China

1. India’s Multi-Vector Foreign Policy: India seeks stability through multiple partnerships. It uses engagement with Russia for energy, defence, and technology, while working with the US for markets and support against China. This approach strengthens India’s strategic autonomy.
2. Russia’s Need to Broaden Partnerships: Russia benefits from India’s engagement because it prevents excessive dependence on China. The summit displayed Russia’s intent to keep important ties beyond Beijing. This helps Moscow diversify its options under sanctions.
3. China’s Concerns About India–Russia Proximity: China closely watches India’s defence ties with Russia. Sensitive military transfers and potential India–US cooperation create concerns for Beijing. These trends could influence regional balances and limit China’s strategic advantage.
4. India as a Rising Power Centre: India presented itself as a growing power that shapes its own choices. Its active engagement with major powers reinforces this image. Its ability to maintain balanced ties is part of its wider strategic identity.

Future Challenges in India–Russia Relations

1. US Pressure and Strategic Shifts: If the US continues using tariffs and sanctions, India may deepen ties with Russia. A shift is possible if the US offers better access, technology, or co-production.
2. Technology Transfer and Regional Effects: Technology transfer in maritime and missile areas may pose challenges. Such cooperation could affect the Indo-Pacific balance. China will observe these developments closely, and India will seek to manage them with care.
3. Balancing Rival Major Powers: The rise of competing blocs will test India’s ability to sustain its “third way”. India must manage engagement with Russia while negotiating major agreements with the US.

Way Forward for the India–Russia Partnership

1. Strengthening Joint Defence Production: Both sides can expand research and co-development. This approach supports India’s self-reliance and offers Russia long-term collaboration.
2. Securing Energy Supplies and Reducing Risks: India can diversify within its Russian energy engagement and manage external pressures. Continued cooperation in nuclear energy will provide stability.
3. Expanding Trade Beyond Energy: Both sides can correct trade imbalance by widening cooperation in infrastructure and technology. Stable payment systems will support smoother exchanges.
4. Managing Triangular Dynamics with the US and China: India can maintain its balanced approach. Clear communication and separate tracks for each partnership will protect its strategic space.

Conclusion

India and Russia continue to find strong value in each other despite global shifts. Their cooperation covers defence, energy, and strategic engagement. They share a belief in a balanced global order. The relationship will face pressures from great-power rivalry, but both sides appear ready to preserve a stable and practical partnership that supports their long-term interests.

Question for practice:

Evaluate how recent developments have shaped the strategic relevance of the India–Russia partnership.

Source: Indian Express