Horns of a Dilemma
Soviet-India Relations: Cold War Contest and Cooperation
Dec 20, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Gokul Sahni, an expert on Cold War history and author of "The Main Drivers of Soviet Foreign Policy Towards India, 1955–1991," delves into the evolution of Soviet-India relations. He highlights the impact of communism and Cold War tensions on diplomatic ties. Sahni explains how leaders like Khrushchev and Indira Gandhi shaped the partnership, and examines its implications for today’s geopolitical landscape. The conversation also touches on future research directions, linking historical insights to modern dynamics.
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Quick takeaways
- The evolution of Soviet-India relations highlights the significance of pragmatic partnerships over rigid ideological alignments throughout the Cold War.
- Contemporary India-Russia ties illustrate a complex balancing act in foreign policy, adapting to geopolitical changes while maintaining historical goodwill.
Deep dives
Key Drivers of Soviet Foreign Policy Towards India
Three main factors shaped Soviet foreign policy towards India from 1955 to 1991. The spread of communism acted as a domestic political ideology influencing both nations, though India remained non-communist while adopting socialist elements under Jawaharlal Nehru. The Cold War rivalry with the United States also played a critical role, as India’s significance grew as a non-aligned country that could counterbalance U.S. influence in Asia. Lastly, the Sino-Soviet relationship impacted India’s standing, especially after the 1962 war, leading the Soviet Union to view India as a partner against a common Chinese adversary.
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