Moscow: India’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Ajit Doval, held a high-profile meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin on Thursday, just one day after US President Donald Trump announced sweeping new tariffs on Indian exports. Trump’s executive order imposed an additional 25% tariff, doubling the total to 50%, in retaliation for India’s continued imports of Russian crude oil.
During their talks, which were captured in video released by Russian media, Doval emphasized India’s long-standing and “very special” strategic partnership with Russia, while reaffirming that energy procurement decisions remain guided by “national interest and market dynamics.”
In parallel, Doval met with Russia’s Security Council Secretary, Sergey Shoigu. The two discussed bolstering defence cooperation and strategizing ahead of President Putin’s planned visit to India later this year—a summit-level engagement widely regarded as pivotal for their bilateral ties.
On Putin’s visit, Doval confirmed that dates are being finalized—though earlier speculation about a late-August timeline was dismissed. Instead, sources suggest the visit is likely scheduled for late 2025.
The India–Russia defence and energy alliance remains robust despite mounting pressure from the West. India has deepened defence ties through deals like the S-400 air-defense system, with three of five squadrons already delivered