Why US tariff deal cannot sever India-Russia defence ties: ‘structural reality’

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AdvertisementIndiaThis Week in AsiaEconomicsWhy US tariff deal cannot sever India-Russia defence ties: ‘structural reality’

While the pact demands a halt to Russian oil imports, analysts say New Delhi’s military dependence on Moscow is non-negotiable

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Russia’s President Vladimir Putin (left) speaks with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi in December 2025. Photo: AFP

Junaid KathjuThe United States’ latest trade deal with India may be linked to a freeze on discounted Russian oil purchases, but analysts say it is unlikely to upset New Delhi’s decades-old defence ties with Moscow.Announcing the agreement last week, US President Donald Trump said tariffs on India imports would be cut from 18 to 50 per cent, tying the reduction to India halting its intake of Russian crude.

“India has committed to stop directly or indirectly importing Russian Federation oil,” Trump said in an executive order dated February 6, adding that Delhi had agreed to buy US energy products.

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The order noted that tariff relief was conditional on ending Russian oil imports and warned that Washington could reimpose a 25 per cent levy if such purchases resumed.

A model of an oil pump in front of a Russian flag. India imported more than US$60 billion worth of oil and petroleum products last year. Photo: Reuters
A model of an oil pump in front of a Russian flag. India imported more than US$60 billion worth of oil and petroleum products last year. Photo: Reuters

While Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed the tariff deal in a social media post, his government has made no formal announcement on ending Russian oil purchases and the issue did not appear in any joint statement. The Kremlin also said it was unaware of any such move.AdvertisementAdvertisementSelect VoiceSelect Speed0.8×0.9×1.0x1.1×1.2×1.5×1.75x1.00x

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