India’s Diplomatic Tightrope Between Kyiv and Moscow
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s travels to Kyiv and Moscow highlight India’s delicate position on the global stage. Facing the dual necessity of securing energy from Russia and accessing Western markets, India navigates a complex geopolitical landscape. These visits reflect a strategic attempt to maintain essential relationships rather than a demonstration of diplomatic power.
Reliance on Russian Energy and Military Supplies
India’s economy heavily depends on Russian resources, sourcing over 40 percent of its oil and 60 percent of its arms from the country. This dependence extends to critical imports like coal, fertilizer, vegetable oil, and precious metals, tying India’s energy security and military readiness closely to Russian supplies. Recent engagements with Russian officials aim to solidify this crucial relationship, as India continues to use alternative currencies to bypass Western sanctions, highlighting its need to sustain this economic lifeline.
The Necessity of Western Economic Alliances
Simultaneously, India must cultivate strong ties with Western nations to ensure access to lucrative global markets. The European Union’s potential inclusion of Ukraine presents new opportunities for India, which it cannot afford to ignore. India’s approach is less about leveraging global influence and more about maintaining access to these essential markets for its exports, particularly in sectors like pharmaceuticals where it has established a significant foothold.
Non-Alignment: A Strategy of Necessity
India’s posture of non-alignment is not so much a choice but a necessity in today’s divided world. By not fully committing to any major power bloc, India aims to keep its strategic options open. This strategy is crucial for a country that must carefully balance its economic dependencies with its diplomatic engagements.
The Challenges of Being a Global Middle Power
India’s actions on the global stage reflect the challenges of a middle power that must often react to external pressures rather than shape them. While India seeks to diversify its foreign policy, its efforts are primarily aimed at preventing isolation or over-reliance on any single partner. This reactive stance shows India’s precarious position in a world where it remains dependent on both Russia for energy and the West for market access.
