India-Russia Relations Strong Amid US Pressure

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has reaffirmed that the relationship between India and Russia is independent of any external pressures, particularly from the United States. Speaking at a press conference during the 78th UN General Assembly, Lavrov described the ties as a "particularly privileged strategic partnership" that is not solely defined by oil trade.

Lavrov emphasized that India’s foreign policy is respected and that its decisions regarding international relations, including oil imports from Russia, are made independently. He stated, "These situations that might arise between India and the United States or any other country cannot be criteria for India-Russia relations." This comment was in response to concerns about US objections to India's continued purchase of Russian oil.

He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's approach to foreign policy, saying, "We have full respect for the national interests of India and the foreign policy that PM Modi is pursuing to promote those interests." Lavrov highlighted the ongoing high-level engagements between the two nations, including a recent meeting between Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China. He also mentioned that Putin is expected to visit India in December.

Lavrov noted that the bilateral relationship encompasses a wide range of areas, including trade, military cooperation, finance, and technology. He remarked, "We have a very extensive bilateral agenda," and confirmed that discussions about oil trade do not dominate diplomatic conversations.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who met with Lavrov, echoed similar sentiments, stating that India’s energy policy is guided by national interests and market dynamics. He remarked, "If the US wants to sell oil to us, we’re open to discussions. But what we buy from others, including Russia, is our sovereign decision." Lavrov agreed, stating that India, like Turkiye, conducts its foreign relations with "self-respect."

Despite facing punitive tariffs from the US, which have reportedly reached up to 50 percent on Indian imports, India remains committed to its energy policy. Lavrov's comments reinforce the notion that India will continue to pursue its own interests in the face of external pressures.