India’s strategic partnership with Russia remains robust despite U.S. pressures, exemplified by NSA Ajit Doval’s recent visit to Moscow, aimed at bolstering defense collaboration and energy ties. India’s imports of Russian crude oil have surged to 35-40% of total imports, allowing it to benefit economically while ensuring lower fuel prices for consumers. The U.S. tariffs and sanctions are viewed by Indian officials as unjustified, reinforcing India’s commitment to strategic autonomy and prioritizing its national interests. The two nations are also exploring alternative payment systems to ensure uninterrupted trade, with a shared goal of increasing bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030.