Modi's Russia Visit amidst Ukraine Conflict

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Russia marks a significant moment in India’s foreign policy, they claimed. This visit, which took place on July 8-9, 2024, was Modi’s first to Russia since the escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in February 2021. During the visit, Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in substantive discussions at the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit. They emphasized the enduring and expanding partnership between the two nations, which is based on trust, mutual understanding, and strategic convergence. Although, Modi is supporting Ukraine in war against Russia, He was awarded Russia’s highest civilian honor, the “Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle,” highlighting the significance of his efforts to enhance bilateral relations. The trip is being perceived as a demonstration of India’s strategic autonomy; however, it highlights the inconsistencies in India’s foreign policy and may create a disparity between its approaches towards the West and Russia.

To talk about its timing, Modi’s visit to Russia occurred just before the NATO Summit in Washington, aimed to create perception regarding India’s strategic autonomy in its foreign policy. However, it was a failed attempt as the U.S. has expressed concerns about India’s engagement with Russia, the visit could strain India’s relations with Western countries, particularly the U.S. and EU, which have imposed sanctions on Russia due to the Ukraine conflict. Showing his concerns, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the visit, calling it a “huge disappointment” and a “devastating blow to peace efforts”. This could affect India’s image as, as they boost, a neutral and peace-promoting nation. Aligning closely with Russia might expose India to geopolitical risks, especially if the conflict in Ukraine escalates or if there are further sanctions on Russia.

The summit also saw the signing of several agreements aimed at enhancing trade relations. Despite efforts to boost trade, the significant trade imbalance remains a concern. India’s exports to Russia are relatively low compared to its imports, leading to economic challenges. On the other hand, these agreement with Russia would certainly hurt India’s trade with West and USA.

Within India, is huge criticism of Modi’s foreign policy approach, particularly from those who believe that closer ties with Russia might not align with India’s long-term strategic interests? Critics argue that India’s heavy reliance on Russian energy imports could make it vulnerable to global market fluctuations and sanctions. The trade imbalance, where India’s exports to Russia are significantly lower than its imports, is also a point of contention. Similarly, some analysts believe that India’s close relationship with Russia might complicate its diplomatic efforts with Western countries, particularly the U.S. and EU. This could impact India’s strategic partnerships and its role in global forums. Furthermore, there are concerns about aligning with a country involved in a controversial conflict. Critics opined that India’s stance might be seen as tacit support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine, which could affect India’s global image as a promoter of peace and democracy.

Aligning closely with Russia could expose India to geopolitical risks, especially if the conflict in Ukraine escalates or if there are further sanctions on Russia. This could have long-term implications for India’s foreign policy and economic stability. For the confused foreign policy approach of India, all political parties are not on the same page. As opposition parties and some political commentators have criticized Modi’s foreign policy approach, arguing that it might not align with India’s long-term strategic interests. They believe that a more balanced approach is necessary to maintain India’s global standing.

These concerns highlight that how folly is the foreign policy approach of Modi’ lead Indian government in a complex and challenging current geopolitical landscape.