The European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, warned that India’s participation in military exercises with Russia and its purchases of Russian oil are hindering the development of closer EU‑India ties. She stressed that the partnership is not limited to trade; it also involves defending a rules‑based international order. While the EU is eager to deepen its relationship with India, the latter’s ties to Russia—particularly joint drills and oil imports—are seen as obstacles to greater cooperation.
India recently joined Russia’s Zapad joint drills with Belarus, a move that has raised concerns because of the exercises’ proximity to NATO borders. Despite these tensions, the EU remains India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade having risen by 90 % over the past decade. The two sides are still working to finalize a free‑trade agreement by the end of 2025.
In addition to the EU, the United States has imposed tariffs on Indian exports in retaliation for India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, further straining US‑India relations. Nevertheless, the EU is pursuing stronger collaboration with India in defence, security, technology and climate issues. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has said it is time to “double down on partnerships rooted in shared interests and guided by common values.”
Senior officials from India and the EU are expected to meet at a high‑level summit early next year to discuss a new EU‑India strategy. The strategy aims to elevate the relationship to the next level, focusing on shared interests and common values. As the EU seeks to reinforce its ties with India, the impact of India’s relationships with both Russia and the United States will remain a key factor in shaping the partnership amid a complex geopolitical landscape.
Comments are closed for this story.