India’s recent involvement in joint military exercises with Russia has sparked unease among European Union diplomats, complicating Brussels’ efforts to strengthen strategic ties with New Delhi. While India maintains its long-standing policy of strategic autonomy, analysts suggest that its participation in Russian war games sends mixed signals amidst escalating geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe. EU officials fear that this balancing act might undermine Europe’s unified stance on sanctions and diplomatic pressure against Moscow.

Diplomatic sources highlight key areas of contention:

  • Military Collaboration: India’s continued defense engagements with Russia contrast with EU’s calls for isolating Moscow.
  • Trade Diplomacy: Potential disruptions in EU-India trade negotiations linked to growing…