India is hoping that a deal between the US and Russia and subsequently a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine could provide sanctions relief to Russia, easing transactions between New Delhi and Moscow and subsequently lifting of the 25% extra tariff imposed on India that, according to Trump, is “funding” Russian war efforts, according to diplomatic observers.
The developments could also have a positive spin-off on the India-US ties and Indian traders may be spared of the 25% extra tariff imposed on account of India’s imports of Russian oil.
On Saturday night, the ministry of external affairs issued a statement endorsing the Trump-Putin summit and suggested that it is ready to support these efforts. “This meeting holds the promise of bringing to an end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and opening up the prospects for peace. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said on several occasions, ‘This is not an era of war’,” a ministry of external affairs spokesperson said in a statement.
Pankaj Saran, currently member of the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB) and former Deputy NSA, told ET, “It is a defining and potentially transformative summit for the world, specially for India. Our ties with both countries are integral to the success of our national development and security goals. India should extend its full support to the summit.”
DB Venkatesh Varma, India’s former envoy to Russia and currently member of NSAB, told ET, “The Alaska summit could prove to be a turning point at the global level and India has a vital interest in its success.”Observers are of the opinion that India’s statement has been able to bring out Europe from New Delhi’s equation in matters pertaining to Russia-Ukraine war and India-USA ties.The EU has been critical of India’s oil purchases from Russia even before the US started criticising India’s oil imports. This may have played a part in influencing Washington to impose an additional 25% tariff on India, according to a diplomatic observer. It may be recalled that the NATO chief, who is the former PM of the Netherlands, also threatened tariffs against India for purchasing Russian oil after his meeting with Trump.
Critics allege some European powers are trying to sabotage or play spoiler ahead of the summit and Ukraine may be encouraged to launch a strike against Russia over the next five days.
Content Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com