EU Seeks Stronger Ties with India Despite Strains Over Russia

The European Union has outlined a new strategy to deepen ties with India, even as sharp differences persist over New Delhi’s relationship with Moscow.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas expressed concern after Indian forces joined Russian-led military exercises in Belarus, which simulated conflict with NATO. She said such participation posed “an existential threat” to Europe and highlighted the lack of a “mutual understanding” on Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Brussels is also uneasy about India’s continued imports of discounted Russian oil, which it argues helps finance Moscow’s war. Despite these concerns, EU officials emphasized that Europe does not want to push India further into Russia’s orbit.
Trade remains a key pillar of the EU’s approach. Talks are underway on a free trade agreement, with officials stressing the bloc’s growing role as India’s largest trading partner and investor. The EU insists that cooperation can expand if sensitive issues, including Russia ties, are addressed during negotiations.