Exclusive: India-Russia ties growing stronger despite US sanctions, says Russian diplomat Roman Babushkin
He pointed out that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is in Moscow to co-chair the 26th session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC) alongside his counterpart Sergey Lavrov, and will also address the India-Russia Business Forum. These engagements, Babushkin noted, lay the groundwork for upcoming high-level interactions, including President Vladimir Putin's expected visit to India later this year.On Western sanctions, Babushkin reiterated Moscow's position, calling them 'unlawful' and 'illegal.' Yet, he argued, the measures have not weakened ties. 'Despite so many sanctions imposed against Russia, we have witnessed a further increase in our engagements. It looks like the more we are pressurised, the more opportunities we find to expand our partnership in all areas, including energy,' he said.Responding to questions on whether the oil trade could be disrupted, Babushkin expressed confidence that both nations would adapt. 'We have demonstrated our ability to adjust ourselves to new circumstances each and every time. Even if small disruptions take place, we will definitely find ways to overcome them,' he said.On defence cooperation, Babushkin highlighted the effectiveness of Operation Sindoor, pointing to the role of Russian systems such as the S-400 missile defence platform and the jointly produced BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. 'It is a development of choice for the Indian Army, and we hope this cooperation will continue,' he said.Looking ahead, he stressed that the defence partnership is not limited to hardware purchases but involves technology sharing, joint production, and continuous upgrades. 'When it comes to jet engines and other systems, we work together, localise production, and keep scope for improvements. We are very optimistic in this regard as well,' he said.His remarks come as preparations intensify for the annual India-Russia summit, with Moscow signaling that the strategic partnership remains resilient and future-focused despite global headwinds.- Ends
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