World in 10 India isn't scared by Trump's Russia threats
Jul 23, 2025
Mark Galeotti, a renowned Russia specialist from MIAC Intelligence and the Royal United Services Institute, dives into India's unique geopolitical stance. He discusses how Narendra Modi navigates the complex relationship with Russia while keeping ties with the West amid threats from Donald Trump. Galeotti highlights India's strategic balancing act against influences from China and Pakistan, showcasing its crucial role in global politics and how it plays Trump and Putin against each other.
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India's Pragmatic Multipolar Strategy
- India pragmatically balances its strategic partnerships with Russia, China, and the West.
- It leverages cheap Russian oil and military kit while cooperating with the US and others.
India's Military Reliance on Russia
- India still relies on Russia for spare parts and upgrades for Soviet-era military equipment.
- This creates a long-term relationship that complicates India’s military partnerships.
India’s Strategic Equilibrium
- India is strong enough to remain under the global radar while balancing great powers.
- Trump’s tariff ultimatum forces India into a difficult choice, which it may reject entirely.