India’s neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict frustrating its Western partners

India’s Tightrope: Balancing Global Powers Amid Russia-Ukraine Conflict and Quad Relations

Once again, India’s foreign policy proves that it is neither easily swayed nor aligned with any single global bloc. Despite being a key member of the Quad—a strategic alliance with the USA, Japan, and Australia aimed at countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific—India’s decision to abstain from condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine at the United Nations has underscored its independent and pragmatic foreign policy approach.

Historical Ties with Russia: A Legacy of Strategic Partnerships

India’s relationship with Russia is deeply rooted in history. From the Cold War era, Russia (then the Soviet Union) has been a vital ally to India. Moscow supported New Delhi during pivotal moments, such as the Kashmir dispute and the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, building trust between the two nations that endures today.

  • Defence Dependency: Even today, Russia remains India’s largest arms supplier, accounting for 45% of India’s military imports between 2017 and 2021. This includes high-tech military hardware, such as S-400 missile systems, which are vital for India’s defence infrastructure.
    Indian diplomat Mr S. Jaishankar commented:
    “India’s relationship with Russia is time-tested, and defence collaboration is integral to our national security strategy. It’s about securing India’s borders and preserving strategic autonomy.”

This defence relationship significantly influences India’s decision-making, including its reluctance to oppose Russia directly on the global stage.

The USA’s Strategic Frustration: Seeking Alignment in a Changing World

On the other hand, the United States has expressed apparent frustration with India’s stance on Russia, particularly as India abstained from multiple UN resolutions condemning the Russian invasion. For Washington, India’s neutrality is difficult to reconcile, especially since the USA views India as a crucial Indo-Pacific partner to counterbalance China’s growing influence and promote regional stability.

An American diplomat, Mr. Robert Blake, stated:
“India’s abstention at the UN was surprising given its strategic alignment with democratic nations in the Indo-Pacific. We expect more from a partner of India’s stature in a situation as clear-cut as Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.”

Despite this tension, U.S. diplomats have remained clear that the partnership is far from deteriorating. The Indo-U.S. trade relationship, for example, continues to thrive, with bilateral trade reaching over $119 billion in 2022, reflecting solid economic ties despite geopolitical differences.

Balancing the Quad: India’s Independent Foreign Policy

India’s strategic autonomy is evident in its navigating its role in the Quad. While India cooperates with the U.S., Japan, and Australia on maritime security and defence exercises like the Malabar Naval Exercise, it does not allow the Quad partnership to dictate its foreign policy choices elsewhere.

  • Statistics: India’s defence budget has ballooned to $76.6 billion, yet only a fraction of its arms imports come from Quad members. Russia’s share remains predominant, highlighting the ongoing military reliance on Moscow.

Mr Jaishankar further commented:
“The Quad is essential to India’s Indo-Pacific policy but does not define all aspects of our global strategy. India will continue to pursue relationships that serve its national interest, including with Russia.”

Economic and Technological Cooperation: The Silver Lining

Despite the disagreement with Russia, India and the USA have continued to deepen their cooperation in technology and trade. U.S. tech investments in India are substantial, with companies like Google and Apple expanding their operations, contributing to India’s vision of becoming a global tech hub.
Moreover, India’s burgeoning semiconductor manufacturing sector is crucial for both nations as global supply chains shift away from China. This economic interdependence softens the impact of geopolitical tensions, ensuring that both countries stay aligned in areas of mutual benefit.

  • Economic Stats: The USA is India’s largest trading partner, and bilateral trade is projected to grow by another 10% in 2024, further strengthening economic bonds despite geopolitical differences.

Strategic Pragmatism: A Future of Cooperation Amid Divergence

While tensions exist, particularly over India’s position on Russia, the core of the India-U.S. relationship remains strong. Both nations see the value in maintaining a close partnership, especially in defence, technology, and trade.

  • Military Cooperation: Joint exercises and technology transfers between the U.S. and Indian militaries have steadily increased. In 2021, both countries conducted over 20 military exercises, demonstrating growing interoperability.

American diplomat Mr. Blake emphasized:
“India’s independent foreign policy doesn’t negate its value as a partner. We are aligned on multiple fronts, including countering China’s aggression and expanding economic ties. India’s stance on Russia is part of a broader, complex foreign policy framework.”

Conclusion: Navigating a Multipolar World

While frustrating for its Western partners, India’s neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict highlights its nuanced foreign policy—one that prioritizes national interests and long-standing alliances. Despite this divergence, India and the USA continue to deepen their strategic partnership, particularly in technology, trade, and defence. As global power dynamics shift, both nations must manage tensions while capitalizing on areas of mutual benefit, ensuring a steady course for future cooperation.

This complex relationship is a testament to India’s pragmatic and multipolar approach to international diplomacy, which seeks to balance relations between global powers without fully aligning with any one bloc.