The European Union is working to strengthen its defense and security ties with India, despite pressure from US President Donald Trump to impose significant tariffs on India over its support of Russia in the ongoing war in Ukraine. Policy reported September 17.
The European Commission stressed the need for closer cooperation between the EU and India to address global security threats and technological change, while urging India to stop helping Russia evade sanctions.
“It is of the utmost importance for the EU that any possibility of war is limited,” the Commission said.
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However, EU-India relations remain complicated by India’s current military cooperation with Russia, such as its participation in Russian military exercises and its continued purchases of Russian oil.
As the EU seeks to deepen ties with India, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas acknowledged that India’s actions on these fronts are hindering closer collaboration, Politico reports.
The EU is also considering sanctions against countries, including India, that help Russia circumvent restrictions.
The EU’s recent sanctions program targeted a Russian refinery in India, preventing it from exporting to Europe.
Despite these challenges, the EU is working to conclude a free trade agreement with India and diversify its trade partnerships, with the aim of concluding negotiations by 2025.
Previously, it was reported that India had asked Moscow to extend discounts on Russian crude to $10 a barrel below the benchmark Brent price, citing increased risks and transaction costs linked to new Western sanctions.
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