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National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is in Moscow for a visit focused on strengthening India's defense and energy ties with Russia. This trip is taking place as the United States expresses concerns over India's continued purchase of Russian oil. US President Donald Trump recently criticised India for buying Russian oil while remaining neutral on the conflict in Ukraine. He also threatened to impose trade tariffs on Indian goods.

The purpose of the visit, according to a TASS report, was to strengthen defense cooperation between the two countries and was part of a prearranged schedule. A source cited by the news agency stated that "the current escalation of the geopolitical situation will also be discussed. Apart from that the topics will include such pressing matters as supplies of Russian oil [to India]."

 

#WATCH | Responding to ANI's question on US imports of Russian Uranium, chemical fertilisers while criticising their (Indian) energy imports', US President Donald Trump says, "I don't know anything about it. I have to check..."

(Source: US Network Pool via Reuters) pic.twitter.com/OOejcaGz2t

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Earlier, on Monday, India's Ministry of External Affairs released a statement rejecting the criticism from the US and EU regarding its imports of Russian oil, calling it 'unjustified.' The ministry pointed out that Western countries had previously supported such trade to help stabilise global energy markets and continue to engage in trade with Russia themselves.

 

"I never said a percentage ": Trump on increasing tariffs on countries buying Russian energy

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During his time in Moscow, Doval is expected to hold discussions on defense industry cooperation. These talks may cover the potential purchase of additional S-400 missile systems, the establishment of maintenance infrastructure in India, and the exploration of options for acquiring Russia's Su-57 fighter jets. The visit is widely viewed as part of India's commitment to its independent foreign policy, which prioritises national interests and maintaining its partnerships.

 

Also Read: Good step: Trump praise India ending Russian Oil purchase

Adding to the high-level engagement, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is also scheduled to visit Russia on August 27 and 28. His visit will focus on defense, energy, and trade discussions. Jaishankar is slated to meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to discuss bilateral and international issues.

He will also co-chair the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Technical and Economic Cooperation with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov. The Ministry of External Affairs has emphasised that India’s relationship with Russia is based on a foundation of mutual understanding and should not be subject to judgment by other countries.

 

Also Read: Trump slams India on trade, vows tariff hike within 24 hours