Parallel News Digital Desk, 8th August
India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Thursday, with the two discussing strategic partnership between the long-time allies, Russian media reported, as a trade dispute with the United States cast a shadow over New Delhi’s foreign policy.
Doval arrived in Moscow on Tuesday night for a visit aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties. The trip took on added significance after U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced a 50% tariff on Indian goods in response to New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian oil, calling it “punishment” for buying from Moscow.
Diplomatic sources said the Doval-Putin talks could pave the way for a major oil import deal that would offer India deeper discounts on Russian crude. Moscow has signalled it will not allow any third-country interference to weaken ties with New Delhi.
India’s foreign ministry issued a lengthy statement criticising Washington’s move, saying U.S. action unfairly targeted India. “Our oil imports are guided by market conditions and the energy needs of 1.4 billion people,” it said, adding that many other nations make similar decisions in their national interest. If you’d like, I can also craft a shorter Reuters “breaking” two-paragraph version for immediate wire transmission. That would make it snappier for headline use.
