The European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, has stated that India’s participation in military exercises with Russia and its purchases of Russian oil are hindering closer ties between the EU and India. Kallas emphasized that the partnership between the EU and India is not only about trade, but also about defending the rules-based international order. The EU is seeking to strengthen its ties with India, but India’s relationships with Russia, including joint military drills and oil purchases, are seen as obstacles to deeper cooperation.

India has recently taken part in Russia’s Zapad joint drills with Belarus, which have raised concerns due to their proximity to NATO borders. The EU is India’s largest trading partner, with trade between the two increasing by 90% over the past decade. Despite tensions over Russia, the EU and India are working to conclude talks on a free trade agreement by the end of 2025.

The US has also imposed tariffs on Indian exports in retaliation for India’s continued purchases of Russian oil, straining US-India ties. The EU, however, is seeking to build stronger ties with India on defense, security, technology, and climate issues. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has stated that the time has come to “double down on partnerships rooted in shared interests and guided by common values.”

Senior figures from India and the EU are expected to meet for a high-level summit early next year to discuss the new EU-India strategy. The strategy aims to take the relationship between the two to the next level, with a focus on shared interests and common values. As the EU seeks to strengthen its ties with India, it remains to be seen how India’s relationships with Russia and the US will impact the partnership. The EU’s efforts to build stronger ties with India come amid a complex geopolitical landscape, with the EU seeking to promote its values and interests in the region.