Tensions between India and the United States are escalating due to India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil. In response, former US President Donald Trump has levied significant tariffs on Indian exports. In a move perceived as a countermeasure, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to visit India before the year’s end. The Interfax news agency initially reported a potential visit by the end of August, which was later corrected to indicate a visit by the end of the year. However, neither the Indian nor Russian governments have officially confirmed the visit. Doval’s visit to Moscow coincided with a visit from US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. Discussions reportedly covered security and defense ties between India and Russia, including the delivery of the S-400 air defense systems. Following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, India, along with China, has been purchasing discounted Russian oil, leading Trump to target India with tariffs.
