India steps up diplomacy with Russia and China amid tensions with the US

Moscow and Delhi are preparing for negotiations. On August 20–21, 2025, Indian Foreign Minister Subramanyam Jaishankar will visit Moscow to meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The visit will take place against the backdrop of strained relations between India and the US: Washington has raised duties on Indian goods to 50% in response to the continued purchases of Russian oil. It is expected that the parties will discuss strategic partnership, prepare for Vladimir Putin's visit to India later in the year, and coordinate positions on key international issues.

Chinese diplomatic visit to New Delhi

Before negotiations with Russia, on August 18, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will arrive in India. He will hold a meeting with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. This is the first visit by a high-ranking Chinese representative since the Indo-Pakistan conflict earlier this year. The main topics will be the border situation (Line of Actual Control) and measures to reduce tensions.

Context: upcoming SCO summit

Active diplomatic contacts are taking place ahead of a possible Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit at the end of August. It is expected that Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

These steps reflect India's стремление to strengthen relations with Moscow and Beijing, while its ties with Washington are under pressure due to trade restrictions and disagreements on energy issues.