EU-India relations strain over Russian military exercise

Tensions between the European Union and India are reportedly rising, with Brussels considering sanctions on Indian entities over alleged connections to Russia’s military programs. This comes amid growing concern in Europe about India’s participation in a major Russian-hosted military exercise.

As per reports, the European Commission on September 19 proposed its 19th package of sanctions against Russia. For the first time, the proposal reportedly indicated that certain Indian entities could be affected, aiming to limit Moscow’s access to critical technologies such as AI and geospatial data that support weapons development.

The timing is notable, as it comes just days after the EU upgraded its relationship with India to a “strategic priority,” highlighting a complex diplomatic scenario.

Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump had reportedly urged EU officials to impose tariffs of up to 100% on India as part of a strategy to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Estonia’s Prime Minister, Kaja Kallas, reportedly stated that inputs from foreign suppliers, including China and India, had been considered in drafting the sanctions. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reportedly emphasized that the bloc sees sanctions as an effective tool to pressure countries assisting Russia’s military efforts.

Adding to the diplomatic friction, European nations have reportedly expressed concern over India’s participation in “Zapad 2025,” a large-scale military exercise held in Russia and Belarus from September 10 to 16. The Indian Armed Forces reportedly sent a 57-member contingent from the Kumaon Regiment to the drills, which involved around 40,000 soldiers.