Washington, D.C. — U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has acknowledged that India’s historical defense procurements from Russia have strained relations with the United States. However, he emphasized that India’s recent pivot towards U.S. defense equipment is fostering improved bilateral ties and propelling trade negotiations forward.

Speaking at the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum in Washington, D.C., Lutnick remarked, “There were certain things that the Indian government did that generally rubbed the United States the wrong way. For instance, you generally buy your military gear from Russia. That’s a way to kind of get under the skin of America if you’re going to buy your armaments from Russia.” He added, “I think India is starting to move towards buying military equipment from the United States, which then goes a long way.”

India’s longstanding reliance on Russian military hardware, including the S-400 missile defense system, has been a point of contention, especially in light of U.S. sanctions against Russia. The Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) posed potential sanctions on countries engaging in significant transactions with Russia’s defense sector. While India faced the risk of sanctions over its $5.43 billion deal for the S-400 system, the U.S. has thus far refrained from imposing them.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and concerns over the reliability of Russian defense supplies have prompted India to diversify its defense partnerships. Recent procurements from the U.S. and France indicate a strategic shift. Collaborations such as the Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) and INDUS-X are enhancing industrial cooperation and innovation between India and the U.S.

Lutnick also addressed India’s involvement in BRICS and its implications for U.S.-India relations. He noted, “Being a part of BRICS, which is, ‘Oh, let’s move to not support the dollar and dollar hegemony’ — that’s not really the way to make friends and influence people in America.”

Despite these challenges, Lutnick expressed optimism about the future of U.S.-India relations. He highlighted the strong personal rapport between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a catalyst for progress, stating, “When they put the right person in India, put the right person on the other side of the table, and we’ve managed (that), I think.”

Trade negotiations between the two nations are advancing, with both sides aiming to finalize a comprehensive agreement soon. The U.S. seeks reduced tariffs on agricultural goods and broader market access, while India desires enhanced access for its exports. A U.S. delegation is scheduled to visit New Delhi on June 5-6 to continue discussions.

As India recalibrates its defense procurement strategy and strengthens ties with the U.S., both nations stand to benefit from enhanced strategic and economic collaboration.

Source; Big News Network