World in 10 India-US relations sour over Trump ultimatum
Aug 7, 2025
Chietigj Bajpaee, a Senior Research Fellow at Chatham House and Asia specialist, dives into the deteriorating relationship between India and the U.S. He examines how Trump’s tariffs on Russian oil imports are causing rifts in diplomatic ties. The discussion highlights India's historical loyalty to Russia and its strategic importance in countering China. Bajpaee also weighs the potential shifts in India's foreign policy as it navigates these tensions amid growing global complexities.
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India's Misperceived US Relationship
- India believed it had a special relationship with the U.S. due to shared leadership styles and mutual views on threats.
- Trump's administration treats countries without allies/adversaries distinction, warning India against expecting special treatment.
India's Stance on Russia and US Tariffs
- India distinguishes its ties with Russia from endorsing the Ukraine invasion, citing strategic and economic dependencies.
- India views U.S. tariffs as unfair, noting U.S. reliance on Russian imports as hypocrisy.
India's Military Ties with Russia
- India still relies on Russian military hardware but is diversifying suppliers and reducing dependence gradually.
- The longstanding India-Russia relationship has deep Cold War roots and ideological importance beyond practicality.