Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia during the Ukraine crisis

SOURCE www.npr.org
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia during the Ukraine crisis raises concerns in Washington about India's alignment with Russia and its implications for US-India relations.

Key Points

  • India's need for affordable oil from Russia influences its foreign policy decisions
  • India's strategic competition with China aligns with US interests despite differences in relations with Russia

Pros

  • India's relationship with Russia is important for economic and defense ties
  • India's neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict maintains its sovereignty

Cons

  • Modi's embrace of Putin may be seen as endorsing Russia's position and undermining US efforts to isolate Russia
  • The timing of the visit during the Ukraine crisis was not well received in Washington