10 June 2025: The Hindu Editorial Analysis
1. The balancing act in India-Russia ties
Source – Editorial, Page 6, The Hindu UPSC IAS Edition
| Topic: GS Paper 2 – International Relations |
| Context |
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India-Russia Relations: An Enduring Partnership
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Historical Context: India and Russia (formerly USSR) share a time-tested relationship, including defense cooperation, nuclear energy collaboration, and diplomatic support.
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Current Developments: Despite Western pressure due to the Ukraine war, India has maintained strong ties with Russia, particularly in oil imports and defense.
Strategic Autonomy and Realpolitik
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India’s foreign policy is increasingly guided by national interest and strategic autonomy rather than alignment blocks.
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India continues engaging with Russia while also strengthening ties with the US, QUAD, and Western Europe.
Challenges
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Ukraine War: India’s neutrality has been scrutinized, especially in multilateral forums.
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CAATSA Sanctions: Threats of US sanctions due to defense deals with Russia.
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Declining Russian Economy: Long-term sustainability of defense and technological cooperation is questionable.
India’s Tightrope Diplomacy
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Uses platforms like BRICS, SCO for engagement.
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Maintains a principled stand on territorial sovereignty while avoiding direct criticism of Russia.
Conclusion / Way Forward:
India must continue its pragmatic diplomacy. Strategic autonomy should guide foreign policy, avoiding binary choices in a multipolar world.
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Practice Question: Discuss the significance of India-Russia relations in the current global geopolitical scenario. How does India maintain a balance between its traditional ties and emerging partnerships? (GS2 | 250 words | 15 marks) |
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