Information
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Moscow amid a backdrop of intensified conflict in Ukraine, where recent airstrikes resulted in numerous casualties, including children at a Kyiv hospital. Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of life, emphasising the need for peace through dialogue rather than continued violence. During their meeting, Modi highlighted the positive impact of Russian manufacturing in India, which is creating employment opportunities for young people, and anticipated a further deepening of their bilateral ties. Putin lauded the strong strategic partnership between Russia and India and appreciated Modi’s efforts to seek peaceful resolutions to the Ukrainian crisis.
The visit marks the first state interaction between India and Russia since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, despite their long-standing ties dating back to the Cold War. The meeting drew concern from the United States, a key ally of both India and Ukraine, which urged India to advocate for Russia’s adherence to the UN Charter and Ukraine’s sovereignty. In preparation for the meeting, a Modi spokesman noted the prime minister’s focus on addressing the presence of Indian nationals misled into participating in the Ukraine conflict and the trade imbalance with Russia. Currently, a significant portion of India’s defence and oil imports come from Russia, highlighting the intricate economic connections between the two nations.
Source: AFP, Reuters
So what
It is likely that Modi has travelled to Russia to resecure contracts for the cheap oil India has been enjoying since Russia’s invasion in 2022. Additionally, it is possible that India is looking to capitalise on Russia’s isolation to secure some good trading terms that could boost India’s exports into the region. Regardless of the morality, India has made it clear that they are not going to take sides in the conflict, continuing to trade with Russia while also sending medical aid to Ukraine. Lastly, it is possible that Russia planned to conduct a shocking strike on Ukraine as a way of dragging them away from the West, thereby ensuring they stay partnered with Russia.
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