India's Foreign Minister Dismisses Concerns Over US-Russia Relations

In a recent address, India's Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar dismissed concerns that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit would complicate trade talks with the U.S. He emphasized India's autonomy in managing its international relationships and reiterated the importance of protecting the interests of farmers and small businesses in trade negotiations. Jaishankar acknowledged the differing approach of the Trump administration but expressed optimism about reaching balanced agreements. His remarks highlight India's commitment to maintaining strategic independence while engaging with major global powers.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 6, 2025, 13:38 IST

India's Stance on Global Relations

On Saturday, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar firmly rejected claims that Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent two-day visit to India would complicate trade discussions between India and the United States. He emphasized that no nation should expect to dictate New Delhi's relationships with other major powers.

Speaking at the HT Leadership Summit 2025, Jaishankar highlighted India's autonomy in maintaining bilateral ties with key countries, asserting that it is unreasonable for any nation to expect to influence how India develops its relationships with others.

India's Strategic Autonomy

Jaishankar expressed his disagreement with the notion that any country could dictate India's diplomatic choices. He stated, "Everyone knows that India has relationships with all major countries in the world. It is not a reasonable expectation for any country to suggest how we should manage our relations with others, as they could expect the same in return." He reaffirmed India's freedom to make its own choices and reiterated the commitment to maintaining strategic autonomy.

The Foreign Minister also reiterated India's approach to negotiating trade agreements with the United States, emphasizing the protection of the interests of farmers, workers, and small businesses.

Acknowledging Different Approaches

Jaishankar acknowledged the distinct approach of the new administration under President Donald Trump but expressed confidence that a balanced agreement could be reached. He noted that each government and U.S. president has their own way of engaging with the world, stating, "In the case of President Trump, it is entirely different from his predecessor's approach."

He stressed that New Delhi is taking prudent steps to safeguard India's economic interests while advancing bilateral trade agreements. "We believe that this could be a decisive point for our respective commercial interests, which will be negotiated rigorously, as the interests of workers, farmers, small businesses, and the middle class are what truly matter," he added.