India’s Jaishankar to Hold Talks in Moscow Following US Tariff Increases

In an effort to bolster the relationship between India and Russia, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Moscow on August 21, as revealed by MFA Russia. The discussions are set against the backdrop of the United States implementing higher tariffs on Indian imports earlier this month due to India’s ongoing procurement of Russian crude oil. The US has expressed concerns that these purchases are supporting Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine. Prior to this, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval held discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, shortly before the imposition of additional tariffs, which initially started at 25% and later increased to 50%. Footage released by the Kremlin showed Putin with Ajit Doval, though the specific topics discussed were not revealed. Putin is expected to visit India by the end of 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to reiterate India’s stance on the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and to underscore India’s commitment to contributing towards this goal.