NSA Doval’s Moscow Visit Signals Stronger India–Russia Ties Amid US Tensions

India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval has held high-level meetings in Moscow at a time of growing US–India tensions over New Delhi’s energy trade with Russia.

As India continues to defend its purchase of Russian oil despite Western sanctions, Doval discussed expanding defence and energy cooperation, confirming that dates for President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India are being finalised—countering media reports of an end-August schedule.

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Talks also covered the delayed delivery of two S-400 regiments, a key part of India’s defence strategy, particularly after their deployment in Operation Sindoor.

Doval’s visit comes shortly after President Donald Trump imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, raising the total to 50%, in retaliation for India’s continued dealings with Moscow. The Kremlin remains India’s top energy supplier, underscoring the strategic weight of these discussions amid shifting global power dynamics.

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