Russian Chargé d’Affaires Roman Babushkin struck a light-hearted note when asked about India’s interest in an Iron Dome-like air defence system, replying: “You mean Sudarshan Chakra?” He even added that he could answer better in Hindi.
On a more serious note, Babushkin underlined that Russia and India share a true strategic partnership built on trust, saying: “Russian weapons are a natural choice for India. We are partners of choice in defence and ready to support any endeavour.”
The envoy also defended India’s independent foreign policy, particularly its continued oil trade with Moscow despite global pressure. “If the West criticises you, it means you are doing everything right. We don’t expect India to stop buying Russian oil,” he remarked, indirectly responding to the 50% US tariff on Indian goods.
He stressed that India matters greatly to Russia, citing President Vladimir Putin’s recent phone call to PM Narendra Modi to brief him on Ukraine developments. “Even in challenging circumstances, we are committed to solving issues for mutual satisfaction. Our deepening partnership will help us grow together,” Babushkin added.
India and Russia have maintained strong ties since Soviet times, with deep military-technical cooperation. Key projects include the BrahMos missile, S-400 systems, licensed production of T-90 tanks and Su-30 MKIs, MiG-29 and Kamov helicopters, INS Vikramaditya, and AK-203 rifles. The relationship has moved beyond a buyer-seller framework to joint research, development, and production of advanced defence technologies.