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Russia to Complete S-400 Missile Defence System Delivery to India by 2026

June 3, 2025, 12:32 pm

Russia has reaffirmed that it will supply the last two units of the S-400 missile defence system to India in 2025–2026. The declaration comes amidst India’s increased air defence focus and follows the system’s reportedly effective performance during recent border tensions with Pakistan.

The move also indicates closer strategic collaboration between Moscow and New Delhi in the defence sector, particularly in air defence and anti-drone technology.

Russia Reaffirms S-400 Delivery Schedule

Russian Deputy Chief of Mission in India, Roman Babushkin, indicated the contract is on schedule. He promised that the last two S-400 squadrons will be delivered within the agreed time frame. India had contracted Russia for five squadrons of the cutting-edge air defense system in 2018 in a deal worth $5.43 billion. Three of them have been delivered already.

Babushkin emphasized that the S-400 carried out “very efficiently” during the latest India-Pakistan military confrontation. He referred to the missile system as a critical element of India’s changing air defense infrastructure.

Partnership May Extend Beyond S-400

Babushkin indicated interest in further defence cooperation with India. He declared that Russia is ready to broaden discussions on air defence systems. He also mentioned that the cooperation is essential, particularly in light of the evolving security environment in Europe and Asia.

“We are open for promotion of this partnership,” Babushkin added. “Air defence is one of the most promising areas in our defence cooperation.”

Anti-Drone Technology in Focus

Babushkin recognized the increasing threat of drones, which was a key factor in the India-Pakistan tensions. He stated Russia has been struggling with such threats for many years and is continually advancing its systems.

He further stated that anti-drone systems are already included in the ongoing India-Russia defence talks. Both countries recognize common interest in addressing drone warfare and formulating joint strategies.

Lavrov May Visit India Soon

Babushkin also added that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will visit India soon. The dates are still to be finalized, but the visit can be scheduled in the current month.

As India modernizes its military further, the delivery of the S-400 on time and increasing defence collaboration with Russia will continue to be central to its strategic preparedness.

India Calls for Immediate Release of Indians Serving in Russian Military After Another Death

January 14, 2025, 8:10 pm

India demanded on Tuesday that Russia release all Indian nationals serving in its military after another Indian citizen was killed on the frontlines of the Ukraine conflict, bringing the death toll to 10.

The external affairs ministry confirmed that an Indian national from Kerala had been killed and another from the same state injured. However, no specific details were provided about the circumstances of the death, although reports indicated that 31-year-old Binil Babu, from Kuttanellur in Thrissur district, was killed in combat with Ukraine.

India has repeatedly called for the release of all Indians working as support staff, such as cooks and helpers, within Russian military units. This issue became more prominent after at least nine Indian nationals were killed during Russia’s war with Ukraine. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also raised the matter with Russian President Vladimir Putin during two meetings last year.

“We have learnt of the unfortunate death of an Indian national from Kerala who had apparently been recruited to serve in the Russian Army,” said external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. “Another Indian national from Kerala, who was similarly recruited, has been injured and is receiving treatment in a hospital in Moscow,” he added.

Jaiswal stated that the matter was “strongly taken up” with Russian authorities in Moscow and the Russian embassy in New Delhi on Tuesday. “We have also reiterated our demand for the early discharge of the remaining Indian nationals,” he said, though he did not disclose how many Indians are currently serving in the Russian military.

“We are working with the Russian authorities for early transportation of the mortal remains to India. We have also sought the early discharge and repatriation to India of the injured person,” Jaiswal continued.

The external affairs ministry offered condolences to the deceased’s family and stated that the Indian embassy in Moscow is in contact with the families of the citizens serving with the Russian army, providing “all possible assistance.”

Last October, Indian officials stated that 85 Indian nationals recruited by the Russian military had been released, and efforts were underway to secure the release of another 20.

The release of some Indians had been delayed because Russia’s defense ministry had not annulled their contracts for military service. The Russian embassy in New Delhi reported that the recruitment of Indians into Russia’s armed forces had ceased in April 2024 and that efforts were being made to discharge those who had “voluntarily contracted for military service.”

India has argued that many of the Indians recruited into the Russian military were “misled” or deceived by unscrupulous recruitment agents. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered a criminal case against 19 individuals and entities last year for their alleged involvement in recruiting Indians and made several arrests.

Does India Emerge as Russia’s Second-Largest Supplier of Restricted Technology? Key Details Inside

October 12, 2024, 11:27 am

India has emerged as the second-largest supplier of restricted technologies to Russia, raising concerns among U.S. and European officials. These exports are believed to be contributing to President Vladimir Putin’s military efforts in Ukraine, complicating efforts by Western nations to cut off vital supplies to Russia.

Surge in Indian Exports to Russia

Indian exports of restricted items, such as microchips, circuits, and machine tools, have seen a significant rise. In April and May, these exports reached over $60 million, about twice the value from earlier months of the year. By July, the figure surged to $95 million, making India second only to China in supplying such critical technologies to Russia, according to officials familiar with the matter.

Frustration Among Western Allies

Officials working with Ukraine have expressed frustration over India’s growing role in supplying restricted goods to Russia. Despite raising concerns with Indian counterparts, they claim to have received little to no response. India’s Ministry of External Affairs declined to comment on the issue.

According to the data, about 20% of the sensitive technology that supports Russia’s military-industrial complex is believed to be routed through India. This highlights the challenge faced by Western countries in curbing Russia’s war capabilities more than two years after its invasion of Ukraine.

Russia’s Strategy of Acquiring Technologies Through Third Countries

Since direct exports of dual-use items to Russia are banned, the country has turned to third nations to secure these technologies. Russia reportedly acquires these items from intermediaries or even unwitting subsidiaries of Western companies. In response, the U.S. State Department has stated it will continue to raise concerns with Indian officials and companies involved.

New Transshipment Hubs Emerging

As the U.S. and European Union continue efforts to block certain supply routes, new hubs for transshipment have emerged. Besides India, countries like Malaysia and Thailand have become significant points for these restricted goods, adding further complications to the sanctions imposed on Russia. Previously, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates were prominent transshipment points.

Balancing Ties with Russia and the West

India’s involvement in these exports presents a diplomatic challenge for Western policymakers. The U.S. and European nations seek to build strong partnerships with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government while India continues to strengthen its ties with Russia. In addition to supplying restricted technologies, India has become one of the largest buyers of Russian oil, despite efforts by allies to curb such sales.

Rupee-Ruble Trade Boosting Exports

A key reason for the rise in Indian exports to Russia is the large reserve of Indian rupees Russia has accumulated through oil sales, according to officials. This has further fueled trade between the two countries.

Sanctions and Western Pressure on India

India’s role as a transshipment hub has caught the attention of U.S. and EU sanctions agencies. Officials from these countries have made several visits to India, urging local authorities to tighten control over shipments to Russia. Several Indian companies have already been targeted by Western sanctions.

In July, U.S. Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo wrote a letter to senior officials at the Confederation of Indian Industry. The letter warned Indian companies and banks of the potential sanctions risks if they continued doing business with Russia’s military-industrial base, according to a report by Bloomberg News.

Russia-India Collaborate For Release of Indians From Ukraine War

August 10, 2024, 5:52 pm

Russian embassy in New Delhi announced on Saturday that it is collaborating closely with Indian authorities to facilitate the early identification and release of Indian nationals involved in Russia’s ‘special military operation’ in Ukraine. This follows multiple appeals from Indian citizens caught in the conflict, who claim they were coerced into participating in the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war under the pretense of job opportunities in Russia.

Russian Embassy Acknowledges Voluntary Participation

In a statement, the Russian embassy in Moscow emphasized that the Indian nationals involved in the conflict did so voluntarily by contracting for military service in Russia. The embassy assured that all contractual obligations and compensation payments would be fully honored. It also expressed deep condolences to the Government of India and the families of those who lost their lives, acknowledging that several Indians have died during their involvement in the war.

Russia Halts Recruitment of Foreign Nationals

The Russian Ministry of Defence has taken steps to prevent further foreign involvement in the conflict. Since April, it has stopped the recruitment of citizens from several countries, including India, into its armed forces. This decision comes in the wake of rising concerns over the involvement of foreign nationals in the Ukraine war.

Indian Government’s Response

Earlier this week, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the issue in the Lok Sabha, revealing that 91 Indian nationals had been recruited into the Russian army, with 69 awaiting release. He confirmed the deaths of eight Indians, with four bodies already repatriated. Jaishankar also acknowledged that some Indians were misled into joining the Russian army under false pretenses, and the government is actively working to bring them back. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered cases against 19 individuals and entities, with evidence against 10 human traffickers already identified.

Jaishankar assured Parliament that India is holding the Russian government accountable for the safe return of its citizens, emphasizing that no Indian should be serving in a foreign military.

Indian Embassy Provides Update After Flight from New Delhi to San Francisco Diverted to Russia

July 19, 2024, 12:54 pm

Air India announced on Friday that they received regulatory clearances for a relief flight from Mumbai to Russia’s Krasnoyarsk, where 225 passengers and 19 crew members of a flight to San Francisco were stranded. The Indian Embassy in Moscow confirmed that three senior officials and an interpreter are on the ground in Krasnoyarsk to assist the passengers.

“An Embassy team of three senior officials and an interpreter is on the ground in Krasnoyarsk to assist the passengers of Air India flight to San Francisco which made an emergency landing at Krasnoyarsk last night,” the embassy stated.

The embassy added, “The team is coordinating with airport and security authorities and a representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry to provide all possible assistance to the passengers. The team will stay on the ground in Krasnoyarsk until Air India’s replacement plane arrives and takes the passengers on their onward journey.”

Air India stated, “Regulatory clearances have been obtained for a relief flight that will depart Mumbai at 11:00 hrs IST and ferry the guests out of Krasnoyarsk International Airport later today.”

India in Russia tweeted, “An Embassy team of three senior officials and an interpreter is on the ground in Krasnoyarsk to assist the passengers of Air India flight to San Francisco which made an emergency landing at Krasnoyarsk last night. The team is coordinating with airport and security authorities and a representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry to provide all possible assistance to the passengers. The team will stay on the ground in Krasnoyarsk until Air India’s replacement plane arrives and takes the passengers on their onward journey.”

India in Russia tweets, "An Embassy team of three senior officials and interpreter is on ground in Krasnoyarsk to assist the passengers of Air India flight to San Francisco which made emergency landing at Krasnoyarsk last night. The team is coordinating with airport and security… pic.twitter.com/YwxSZTssrq

— ANI (@ANI) July 19, 2024

Flight AI183 from New Delhi to San Francisco was diverted to Russia due to a technical issue. The flight made a precautionary landing at Krasnoyarsk International Airport on Thursday after the cockpit crew detected a potential issue in the cargo hold area.

In Friday’s statement, Air India mentioned that local support was assisting passengers, who had to stay in the terminal because they did not have Russian visas. Representatives from the Indian consulate in Moscow traveled overnight to work with Russian authorities to facilitate moving passengers to hotels.

“Food and beverage amenities at the terminal, which were closed for the evening, have now opened and meals are being provided to all passengers. Representatives from the Indian consulate in Moscow have traveled overnight and are working with Russian authorities to allow passengers to move to hotels, which have been on standby throughout the night,” the airline added.

Prime Minister Modi Wraps Up Visits to Austria and Russia

July 11, 2024, 10:47 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has finished visiting Austria and Russia, which were important trips during his third term as India’s leader. These visits are crucial because India wants to strengthen its relationships with key countries in Europe and Eurasia, especially given today’s changing global situation.

Visit to Austria: A Historic Visit

During his time in Austria, PM Modi said the visit was historic and very productive. He attended meetings and events to make the bond stronger between India and Austria. PM Modi thanked Chancellor Karl Nehammer and the Austrian government for their warm welcome, showing how their friendship is growing. This was PM Modi’s first official visit to Austria during his third term, showing how important it is to strengthen relationships and find new ways to work together.

PM Modi also met with the Indian community in Vienna. He talked about how important they are to improving the relationship between India and Austria and making sure India is known around the world. The event was a great way to show how much Indians in Austria care about their country and their connection to India.

Key Talks and Deals

PM Modi and leaders in Austria talked about many things, like working together on business, sharing technology, and doing more cultural events together. They talked about how they can work together on clean energy, schools, and new ideas. These talks will help both countries make deals that will help both of them make more money and do better in the world.

Visit to Russia: Making Stronger Partnerships

While we don’t have a lot of details about PM Modi’s trip to Russia, usually when he goes there, he talks about doing more business together, working on important things for defense, and trying new ways to do things. Russia and India have been friends for a long time when it comes to defense and helping each other out in the world.

PM Modi’s trips to Austria and Russia show how much India wants to be friends with countries in Europe and Eurasia. These trips make the bond between India and these places stronger and open up new ways to work together. As India gets stronger in the world, these trips are important to show how much India cares about making sure its friends are strong too.

These trips are a big deal for India and show how serious India is about making sure its friends in other countries do well too. As the world changes, India will keep making trips like these to show how much it cares about making the world a better place for everyone.

PM Modi celebrates India Russia Friendship

July 9, 2024, 5:22 pm

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the Indian community in Moscow, called Russia a “trusted friend” and “India’s partner in both happiness and sorrow.” He also mentioned the famous Hindi song “Sar pe laal topi Rusi” in his speech, the iconic song of actors Raj Kapoor and Mithun Chakraborty for boosting the ties between the two countries. “The song was once sung and heard in every household here — ‘Sir pe lal topi Rusi, phir bhi dil hai Hindustani.’ This song may have become old, but the emotions of the song is evergreen,” he said.

PM Modi was referring to the popular “Mera joota hai Japani” song from the 1955 Bollywood movie ‘Shree 420’. In the early 1950s, during the height of the “India-Rusi bhai bhai” theme, Raj Kapoor became a sensation in Russia. His movies, especially ‘Shree 420’ and ‘Awara,’ were some of the highest-grossing productions in Russia and are still shown on many cable networks, dubbed in Russian or with subtitles.

Raj Kapoor’s popularity also inspired a side story in Vikramaditya Motwane’s recent series ‘Jubilee,’ which highlights the Soviet Union’s deep interest in India’s film industry soon after independence.

Strengthening India-Russia Friendship: A Path to Mutual Progress

July 9, 2024, 1:53 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent address to the Indian community in Moscow underscored the enduring bond and shared aspirations between India and Russia. His visit highlighted the deep-rooted friendship built on mutual trust and cultural affinity.

Mutual Appreciation and Understanding

Modi praised Russian President Vladimir Putin for his efforts in strengthening bilateral relations, emphasizing the warmth and understanding evident in their personal interactions. This camaraderie reflects the longstanding strategic partnership and mutual respect that characterize India-Russia relations.

Celebrating India’s Achievements

During his speech, Modi celebrated India’s economic and developmental achievements over the past decade. He cited iconic projects such as the construction of the world’s tallest railway bridge and statue, which symbolize India’s growing global influence and technological prowess. These feats are not just engineering marvels but also represent India’s emergence as a key player in infrastructure development and innovation on the global stage.

Future Plans for Closer Collaboration

Looking towards the future, Modi outlined plans to enhance bilateral cooperation by establishing new consulates in Kazan and Yekaterinburg. This initiative aims to facilitate easier trade and cultural exchanges between India and Russia, extending beyond traditional diplomatic centers to promote closer people-to-people ties.

Technological Advancements and Leadership

Technological advancements were also a focal point of Modi’s address, where he highlighted India’s achievements in space exploration and digital technology. Projects like the Chandrayaan mission and advancements in digital transactions demonstrate India’s commitment to leveraging technology for socio-economic development and global leadership.

A Vision for Mutual Progress

Modi reiterated that the relationship between India and Russia transcends mere diplomacy—it is a strategic partnership grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to progress. He emphasized that as India and Russia navigate global challenges, their collaboration will play a crucial role in promoting stability and prosperity not only in the region but also on the global stage. The enduring friendship between India and Russia stands as a testament to the power of cooperation and shared vision in today’s interconnected world, fostering peace and cooperation for mutual benefit.

PM Modi Begins Two-Day Visit To Russia and Austria Amidst Ukraine War

July 8, 2024, 12:33 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to begin a two-day visit to Russia on Monday, his first since Moscow launched its invasion of Ukraine. During this visit, Modi will engage in crucial one-on-one discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer.

On July 8, Modi will dine privately with Putin, marking their first meeting since the war began. The conflict has strained the relationship between the long-time allies and pushed Russia closer to India’s regional rival, China.

During his visit, PM Modi will be physically conferred the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle the First-Called, the highest state decoration by the Russian Federation. The visit is significant for India as it seeks to deepen and strengthen its energy ties with Russia. With Europe procuring energy supplies from West Asia at higher prices due to the Ukraine war, India is exploring various routes, including the Arctic route, to evacuate energy from Russia. India also plans to invest more in Russia’s energy sector.

Key discussions between Modi and Putin will focus on the Ukraine war, which continues to destabilize global markets and security. Having had firsthand discussions with G-7 leaders during the Italy summit last month, Modi is in a unique position to impress upon Putin the futility of prolonging the conflict and to urge him to return to the negotiating table. Modi is one of the few global leaders with a strong personal rapport with Putin, and both share mutual respect.

Modi will also address the issue of recruiting Indians to fight in the Ukraine war and seek to deepen cooperation with Russia in the fields of space and nuclear energy. India aims to activate Kudankulam Reactors III and IV with Russian assistance in the next two years and to begin work on Reactors V and VI for the 6000 MW plant. Additionally, India is seeking Russian help for its Gaganyaan space mission, which aims to send Indian astronauts into space and establish a future space station as well as a moon landing.

After visiting the Rosatom exhibition, showcasing Russian nuclear technology in Moscow, Modi will fly to Vienna for a private dialogue with Austrian Chancellor Nehammer on July 9. This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Vienna since 1983. Austria has a historical connection with India, notably through Indologist Joseph Tieffenhaler, whose 1740 travelogue was cited in the Supreme Court judgment in the Ayodhya Ramjanambhoomi case.

In Vienna, discussions will center around the Ukraine war, with both nations potentially playing a role in resolving the conflict. The Ukraine war has serious economic ramifications for the Global South, and as a non-NATO member and part of the EU, Austria is in a unique position to contribute to peace efforts. Austrian companies are already involved in Indian infrastructure projects, and Vienna leads in clean and green technologies, such as converting used cooking oil into green fuel.

Ajit Doval Visits Russia; Condemns Moscow’s Terror Attack

April 25, 2024, 11:23 am

National Security advisor of India Ajit Doval has recently attended a bilateral meeting, with the Russian secretary of the security council Nikolai Patrushev at Russia.

During its Russian visit, Mr. Doval along with Nikolai Patrushev, reviewed the progress in relation to their bilateral cooperation and had discussions on the important issues of mutual interest.

As per the Indian Embassy, the bilateral meeting was held on the sidelines of the XII International Meeting of High-Ranking Officials Responsible for Security Matters in St Petersburg.

“On the sidelines of the XII International Meeting of High-Ranking Officials Responsible for Security Matters in St Petersburg, NSA Shri Ajit Doval had a bilateral meeting with His Excellency Mr. Nikolai Patrushev, Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation. Both sides reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation and discussed important issues of mutual interest” reported by Indian embassy.

On the sidelines of the XII International Meeting of High Ranking Officials Responsible for Security Matters in St Petersburg, NSA Shri Ajit Doval had a bilateral meeting with His Excellency Mr. Nikolai Patrushev, Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation.

Both… pic.twitter.com/V5WkjKE8oL

— India in Russia (@IndEmbMoscow) April 24, 2024

During its visit, Mr. Ajit Doval had expressed its condemnation for the crocus city hall attack and has asked for the abolishment of double standards in dealing with the menace of terrorism.

Earlier, he attended a lunch meeting of BRICS, which was hosted by the Russian Security Council’s Secretary. Where he called for the closer cooperation in combating terrorism and also take concrete actions against transborder planning, funding and execution of terror acts.

Later, he also held a bilateral meeting with Brazilian president’s chief advisor, Celso Amorim.

“NSA Shri Ajit Doval had a bilateral meeting with His Excellency Celso Amorim, Chief Advisor to the President of Brazil. Bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest were discussed” reported by Indian embassy.

Jaishankar’s Russia visit, Signed on kudan kulam nuclear power plants

December 30, 2023, 2:00 pm

During his trip to Russia, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar signed three agreements pertaining to the Kudan Kulam Nuclear Power Plants, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on collaboration in pharmaceuticals and healthcare, and a Protocol on Foreign Office Consultations, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs.

The visit of the EAM to Russia took place from December 25 to 29, as part of the ongoing high-level exchanges between the two countries.

Throughout his visit, Jaishankar had a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow and engaged in discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Trade, Denis Manturov, as well as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sergey Lavrov.

“Three documents relating to the Kudan Kulam Nuclear Power Plants, an MoU on cooperation in pharmaceuticals and healthcare and a Protocol on Foreign Office Consultations were signed during the visit,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a release.

EAM engaged in a thorough discussion regarding the bilateral collaboration in trade and economics, energy, defense, connectivity, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, as well as the cooperation between different regions of both nations.

“He also shared perspectives on global and regional developments, including multilateral cooperation,” the release added.

In addition, he engaged in discussions with Russian think tanks and scholars, exchanging perspectives on Indian foreign policy and the relationship between Russia and India. The release highlighted the significant role of cultural ties and people-to-people exchanges in fostering goodwill and friendship between India and Russia, as evident in the EAM’s interaction with the Indian Diaspora in Moscow.

Furthermore, the EAM met with Governor Alexander Beglov in Saint Petersburg to explore potential collaborations in the economic and cultural sectors. The release also mentioned his fruitful conversation with a diverse group of Indologists at Saint Petersburg University. Their discussions focused on ways to enhance mutual understanding and appreciation of the developments taking place in both countries.

Additionally, the EAM had the opportunity to engage with teachers and students at School.

Moreover, the EAM’s visit to Russia served as a platform to assess the progress of bilateral cooperation and explore avenues to further strengthen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.

The relationship between India and Russia has remained robust and consistent, built upon shared strategic interests, geopolitical alignments, and mutually advantageous cooperation between the two nations.

India, Russia exceed bilateral trade target of USD 30 billion

April 17, 2023, 5:43 pm

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said on Monday that India and Russia have exceeded their bilateral trade target of USD 30 billion by 2025, and that trade is expected to increase further.

“We have crossed the bilateral trade target of USD 30 billion before the year 2025, which was the target year given to us by our leaders,” he said at the India-Russia Business Dialogue in Delhi. And, in fact, I understand that the trade for the period April 2022-February 2023 is around USD 45 billion, with the expectation that it will continue to grow.” According to Jaishankar, India and Russia must encourage business on both sides. He stated that they are determined to make India a “global manufacturing hub”.

“We need to motivate business on both sides. You can see that there are big changes going on, like Make in India. We are determined to make India a global manufacturing hub. I want to emphasise the opportunity for Make in India and Russia, as Russia is known for its technological strength,” Jaishankar said.

Speaking about the relations between India and Russia, Jaishankar said that the two nations have historic people-to-people ties. He also spoke about the possibility of greater business between the two nations in the tourism sector.

In his remarks at the India-Russia Business Dialogue, Jaishankar said, “Our two countries have historically also had a strong people-to-people connection. But I must point out that we actually get less than 1 percent of Russia’s outbound tourism. So, now that we are talking about exploring new areas and new opportunities, I would also flag whether more direct flights to more destinations will provide a possibility for greater business when it comes to tourism.”

EAM Jaishankar stressed that the ties between India and Russia have not changed. He said, “Our partnership today is a subject of attention and comment, not because it has changed but because it has not. Indeed, it has been among the steadiest of the major relationships in the world in the contemporary era. But that by itself is not enough.” Jaishankar said that Russia is looking more towards Asia, and for India, it means a broadening of engagement between the two nations, which was overly dependent on military, nuclear, and supply-space cooperation.

In his address at the India-Russia Business Dialogue, he said, “We are discussing the importance of connectivity, and the north-south and maritime corridors have been considered.” There is also discussion on payment issues like international trade settlement in the Indian rupee.

EAM Jaishankar said that there is concern regarding the trade imbalance. He highlighted the need to work with Russia urgently to address the trade imbalance. He said that addressing the issue means addressing the impediments, whether they are market access impediments, non-tariff barriers, or issues regarding payment and logistics.

India abstains from voting on the UNGA resolution criticising Russia’s annexation of areas of Ukraine

October 13, 2022, 1:27 pm

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Wednesday passed a resolution denouncing Russia’s annexation of the four regions of Ukraine.

Five members abstained, leaving 143 members in favour of the proposal. As many as 35 countries, including India, abstained on the vote. The resolution was passed just days after India abstained and Russia blocked a similar motion in the Security Council.

The most recent resolution, which was approved by the members without veto power, denounces Russia for its “attempted illegal annexations” of the four regions of Ukraine after “so-called referendums.”

Two days have passed since the conflict between Ukraine and Russia at the UNGA on Monday.

India voted on Monday to reject Russia’s demand that the UNGA vote on a draught resolution denouncing Moscow’s “attempted illegal annexation” of Ukrainian territory be conducted in secret.

After Russia suggested a secret ballot for the resolution on Ukraine, Albania demanded an open vote. India supported a procedural vote that was requested by Albania.

107 countries voted in favour of the Albanian plan, while 13 abstained and 39 countries rejected it. China, Iran, and Russia were among the twenty-four nations that abstained.

The annexation of four regions—Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia—was formally proclaimed by the signature of documents by Russian President Vladimir Putin in the final week of September.

Tensions between Russia and Ukraine have risen this week following the explosion on the Crimean bridge, which provoked Moscow to launch missile strikes on important Ukrainian cities.

Antonio Guterres, the head of the UN, condemned the Russian actions and expressed his amazement, saying they represented “another unacceptable escalation” of the conflict.

The attacks, which apparently caused significant harm to civilian areas and resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries, demonstrated that, “as always,” people bore the brunt of Russia’s invasion on February 24.

Putin issued a “harsh” warning this week following the attack on the Crimean bridge on Saturday. Following the Crimea bridge explosion, Putin claimed on television that Russia had attacked military and infrastructural targets throughout Ukraine.

IS suicide bomber arrested in Russia for planning terrorist strike in India

August 22, 2022, 4:10 pm

The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) stated on Monday that its agents had apprehended a suicide bomber who was a member of the Islamic State terrorist organisation and was preparing a terrorist assault against a member of India’s ruling elite.

“Russia’s FSB identified and detained a member of the Islamic State international terrorist organisation banned in Russia, a native of a country in the Central Asian region, who planned to commit a terrorist act by blowing himself up against one of the representatives of the ruling circles of India,” the authorities said in a statement.

According to the statement, one of the IS leaders in Turkey recruited those arrested to carry out suicide bombings.

More details regarding this story are awaited as it is still developing.

The Central Government has designated Islamic State and all of its incarnations as Terrorist Organizations and added them to the First Schedule of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

The Home Ministry claims that IS spreads its ideas through a variety of online social media channels. The relevant agencies are closely monitoring cyberspace in this regard, and appropriate legal action is being taken.

S Jaishankar on buying Russian oil: ‘duty towards the people’

August 17, 2022, 10:38 am

The world has somewhat accepted New Delhi’s stance on buying Russian oil in light of Moscow’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine, according to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, because New Delhi has not been defensive about its choice and instead has helped other nations understand the responsibility they have to their citizens.

“Once you lay it out very openly and honestly, people accept it.” Jaishankar remarked, “They may not always appreciate it, but once it is there and you are not trying to be too clever about it, you actually have laid out your interest in a very direct manner, my sense is that the world somewhat accepts that as reality,” addressing a meeting with the Indian community in Bangkok, Jaishankar remarked.

Jaishankar, who has frequent liaison with Americans, remarked, “I do see that—not just in the United States but including the US—that they know what our position is and they move on with that.”

Since Europe is buying less oil from Russia, many of India’s suppliers have switched their shipments to Europe, according to the foreign minister. “Oil prices are unreasonably high, and so are gas prices. A lot of traditional suppliers to Asia are diverting to Europe because Europe is buying less oil from Russia. It is a situation today where every country will try to get the best deal possible for its citizens to try to cushion the impact of these high energy prices. And that is exactly what we are doing,” Jaishankar said.

“We are not doing it in a defensive way. We are being very open and honest about our interests. I have a country which has a per capita income of two thousand dollars. These are not people who can afford higher energy prices. It is my obligation, my moral duty to actually ensure that I get them the best deal,” he further added.

In light of India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, questions regarding the relations between India and the US were put to the foreign minister. To participate in the 9th India-Thailand Joint Commission Meeting as both nations commemorate 75 years of the start of diplomatic relations, Jaishankar arrived in Thailand on Tuesday. Following the meeting, India and Thailand will sign their MoUs.

India’s defence deal with Russia may trigger US sanctions: Congressional report

January 5, 2021, 3:16 am

India’s multi-billion dollar S-400 missile deal may trigger US sanctions on New Delhi, a US Congressional report has warned.

The Congressional Research Service (CRS)—an independent and bipartisan research wing of US Congress—in its latest report to Congress, said India is “eager for more technology-sharing and co-production initiatives, while the United States urges more reforms in India’s defence offsets policy and higher Foreign Direct Investment caps in its defence sector”.

Prepared for the members of the Congress for them to take informed decisions, the report went on to warn that “India’s multi-billion dollar deal to purchase the Russia-made S-400 air defence system may trigger US sanctions on India under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act”.

Incidentally, last month, the Trump administration had imposed sanctions on its NATO ally Turkey over its purchase of a Russian air defence system. The move came at a delicate time in relations between Washington and Ankara, which have been at odds for more than a year over Turkey’s acquisition from Russia of the S-400 missile defence system, along with Turkish actions in Syria, the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan and in the eastern Mediterranean.

News agency PTI reported that the CRS reports are in no way official reports of the US Congress or reflect the view of Congressmen. They are prepared by independent experts for the lawmakers to take informed decisions.

In October 2018, India had signed a $5 billion deal with Russia to buy five units of the S-400 air defence missile systems, despite a warning from the Trump administration that going ahead with the contract may invite US sanctions. In 2019, India made the first tranche of payment of around $800 million to Russia for the missile systems.

The S-400 is known as Russia’s most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile defence system.

Last month, Russia had said that implementation of its ongoing defence deals with India, including the supply of a batch of S-400 missile systems, is advancing well notwithstanding the threat of US sanctions.

At a press conference in New Delhi last month, Russian Ambassador to India Nikolay Kudashev appeared to criticise the US sanctions on Turkey for procuring the S-400 missile systems under a $2.5 billion deal, saying Moscow does not recognise such unilateral actions.

“We do not recognise or welcome unilateral sanctions as a language or tool or instrument of interstate or international relations, other than those applied by the UN Security Council,” he said.

“As far as India is concerned, we share the same platform. India’s position is also crystal clear. No sanctions are acknowledged other than those imposed by the UN Security Council. Whatever the future is, we believe that our ties could withstand the coming challenges,” he said. WITH AGENCY INPUTS