India joins Russia-led Zapad-2025 military exercises amid US trade tensions

India has sent a 65-member team to take part in the Russia-led Zapad-2025 military drills in Nizhny Novgorod, according to reports. The participation comes at a sensitive time, with India-US ties under strain after Washington imposed steep tariffs on Indian imports last month.

As per reports, the contingent, led by soldiers from the Kumaon Regiment, engaged in joint tactical training, specialised arms practice, and battlefield manoeuvres alongside Russian and Belarusian troops. India’s Ministry of Defence reportedly described the move as an effort to “strengthen defence cooperation and enhance mutual trust” with Moscow.

The exercises, which reportedly involved around 100,000 troops, featured nuclear-capable bombers, warships, artillery units, and over 300 aircraft. Russian President Vladimir Putin was seen at the Mulino Training Ground overseeing the drills’ active phase, where he reportedly emphasised the focus on combat readiness and countering potential threats.

India was not the only foreign participant, forces from Iran, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Mali also joined. For the first time since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, US military officials reportedly observed the drills, signalling a cautious opening of channels with Belarus despite regional tensions.

India’s role in the exercises comes against the backdrop of worsening friction with Washington. Last month, President Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods, citing New Delhi’s continued purchases of Russian oil which, according to the US, indirectly supports Moscow’s war effort in Ukraine.