India-Russia ties continue to grow: MEA

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India has confirmed that the relationship between India and Russia is deepening across various sectors, including trade, defense, and cultural exchanges. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the ongoing cooperation between the two nations during a recent press conference, emphasizing that their partnership remains robust and diverse. This announcement comes amid increasing scrutiny of India's energy ties with Russia, particularly in light of the India-US trade agreement, which aims to reshape India's oil purchasing strategy. US President Donald Trump had previously imposed additional tariffs on Indian imports, prompting discussions about India's reliance on Russian oil. However, Russian officials, including Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, expressed confidence that India would maintain its energy cooperation with Russia, describing it as beneficial for both countries and the international market. Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal reiterated that energy security is a top priority for the government, stating that India's strategy aims to ensure stable oil supplies for its population of 1.4 billion while adapting to global market dynamics. The emphasis remains on diversifying oil sources, which may include purchases from the US and Venezuela, to bolster energy security as geopolitical landscapes evolve.