Why US tariff deal cannot sever India-Russia defence ties: ‘structural reality’

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Junaid KathjuFebruary 9, 2026 at 09:30 AM
Why US tariff deal cannot sever India-Russia defence ties: ‘structural reality’

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short article 1 min

A recent trade deal between the United States and India involves reduced tariffs on Indian imports, reportedly linked to India halting Russian oil purchases. According to a US executive order, the tariff reduction is conditional on India ending direct or indirect imports of Russian oil, with a potential 25% levy reinstatement if purchases resume. While US President Trump announced the agreement and India's commitment to halt Russian oil imports, the Indian government has made no formal announcement on the oil purchase cessation. The Kremlin also stated it was unaware of any such agreement. Analysts suggest that despite the trade deal, India's long-standing defense ties with Russia are unlikely to be significantly affected.

Keywords

india-russia defence ties 80% us tariff deal 70% russian oil imports 60% india-us trade 50% us energy products 40%

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Source
South China Morning Post
Classification Confidence
90%
Geographic Perspective
India

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