India’s Shift from Russian Arms to U.S. Defence Boosts Chances for Major Trade Deal

India’s Shift from Russian Arms to U.S. Defence Boosts Chances for Major Trade Deal

Last Updated Jun - 03 - 2025, 03:56 PM | Source : Fela News

India’s move from Russian arms to U.S. defence deals helps ease tensions and opens path to strong bilateral trade agreement.

India’s gradual shift from buying military equipment from Russia to choosing U.S. made defence gear is helping smooth out past tensions with Washington and bringing both countries closer to a landmark trade deal.

Speaking at the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum, the United States Commerce Secretary said that India’s previous reliance on Russian arms had strained the relationship. "Buying weapons from Russia didn’t sit well with us," he explained, but noted that India’s new approach is changing things for the better.

This shift towards American defence partnerships is seen as a key reason why a major bilateral trade agreement could be finalized soon. “You should expect a deal in the not-too-distant future,” the secretary said, adding that both sides now have the right people in place to make it happen.

India and the U.S. are working toward scaling their trade from the current $191 billion to $500 billion, with a goal to complete the first phase of the deal by September or October 2025. Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal confirmed that both nations are committed to giving businesses preferential access and reducing tariff barriers to boost trade.

The secretary praised India’s fast-paced efforts and called the relationship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former President Donald Trump a unique advantage in current negotiations.

He also shared that the U.S. had paused its earlier tariff threats except for China to allow space for productive talks before the July 9 deadline.

The Forum featured warm support from U.S. lawmakers and even a touching anecdote from Second Lady Usha Vance, who recalled her son’s love for mangoes during a visit to India.

This growing alignment in defence and economic matters is setting the stage for a deeper and more balanced partnership between the two countries.

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