Russia has reaffirmed that it is deeply focused on increasing trade with India, even as sanctions, financial restrictions, and geopolitical pressure from third countries complicate bilateral economic activity. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said in Moscow that despite “artificial obstacles created by unfriendly nations,” the Russia–India partnership remains resilient and strategically important.
Peskov emphasized that trade flows between the two countries have continued to grow across several sectors, especially energy, fertilizers, agricultural products, machinery, pharmaceuticals, and defence-related cooperation. He noted that India’s willingness to maintain an independent foreign policy has allowed the two nations to build “stable and predictable” commercial ties, even when global dynamics become turbulent.
A major driver of this growth has been India’s increased imports of Russian crude oil, making New Delhi one of Moscow’s most significant energy partners. The shift has raised bilateral trade volumes to record highs, despite challenges in payment channels, currency settlements, and insurance for shipping routes due to Western sanctions.
To overcome those hurdles, Russia and India have been expanding the use of local currency mechanisms, including rupee–ruble settlements and alternative banking pathways designed to bypass the U.S.-dollar-dominated system. Peskov acknowledged that some settlement issues remain unresolved but stressed that both sides are “actively working” on durable financial solutions.
Indian officials have repeatedly said that India’s trade with Russia is guided by national interest and a commitment to supply-chain stability. New Delhi continues to resist pressure from Western governments that want India to scale back economic ties with Moscow, insisting that energy security and affordable imports remain top priorities.
Trade experts say that while logistical and financial hurdles continue, the long-term outlook for Russia–India commerce remains strong. Both sides are now looking at new areas of expansion, including digital payments, nuclear energy cooperation, shipping corridors via the Northern Sea Route, and enhanced connectivity through the International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
For Moscow, India has become a crucial economic partner during a time of global isolation; for India, Russia remains a key supplier and geopolitical counterbalance. Despite external pressure, analysts say the momentum between the two countries is likely to remain firm — shaped by strategic necessity, economic opportunity, and mutual political trust.