Russia’s charge d’affaires, Roman Babushkin, expressed optimism about Russia’s involvement in India’s Sudarshan Chakra air defense project, emphasizing the enduring partnership between the two nations despite U.S. sanctions on Indian oil imports from Russia. He criticized U.S. tariffs as detrimental to global stability, asserting India’s energy decisions are driven by national interests. Russia’s share of India’s oil imports surged from 1.7% in 2019-20 to 35.1% in 2024-25, highlighting the deepening economic ties. Babushkin affirmed intentions to bolster bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030, while underscoring the growing significance of BRICS amid geopolitical tensions.