India’s National Security Adviser, Ajit Doval, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on August 7, 2025, just one day after U.S. President Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods—from 25% to 50%—in retaliation for India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil.
During the strategically timed meeting, Doval and Putin reaffirmed the enduring strength of their bilateral “strategic partnership,” covering energy and defense cooperation.
The Kremlin also released a video of the handshake, signaling the high significance of the dialogue. Additionally, Doval held preliminary discussions with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu to lay the groundwork for President Putin’s expected visit to India later this year.
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What happened during the meet?
During the meeting, Doval and Putin reaffirmed the strength of the India-Russia “special and privileged strategic partnership,” discussing key areas such as energy cooperation, defense procurement, and regional security.
The timing of the visit underscored India’s commitment to maintaining an independent foreign policy amid rising U.S.-Russia tensions. Doval also held talks with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, reportedly finalizing the groundwork for Putin’s anticipated visit to India later this year.
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Trump’s additional tariffs
On Wednesday, President Trump enacted an executive order that levies a further 25 percent tariff on products brought in from India, raising the total import duty to 50 percent. The United States has likewise warned of secondary sanctions on nations purchasing Russian oil unless Moscow consents to end the war in Ukraine, which is now approaching its fourth year, by Friday.
The tariffs were imposed in retaliation for India’s continued imports of discounted Russian oil, a move Washington views as undermining Western sanctions on Moscow.
