Russia and India plan to increase trade turnover to $100 billion: what concessions is the Kremlin ready to make.

According to FREEДOM: The agreement between Russia and India to increase trade turnover to $100 billion has become a topical issue. During the visit of the head of India's foreign affairs ministry to Moscow, discussions were held about reducing tariffs and other barriers between the countries. Why India is an important partner for Russia and what concessions they might make for trade agreements was investigated by the FREEДОМ TV channel.

Indian refiners resume purchases from Russia

After a brief pause, Indian refiners have resumed purchasing Russian oil. U.S. President Donald Trump had previously threatened sanctions, causing a pause in purchases. However, over the past two days, refiners have already bought several batches of Urals oil for shipments in September and October, Bloomberg reports.

“Refiners, including Indian Oil Corp. and Bharat Petroleum Corp., have purchased several batches of Urals oil in the last two days. Shipments are planned for September and October,” Bloomberg notes.

After the onset of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, imports of Russian oil to India surged. Not long ago, the country was buying small volumes, but by July 2025 this figure soared to 1.5 million barrels per day, surpassing China and becoming the largest buyer of Russian oil.

“Before Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, India imported less than 1% of its oil from Russia. So the argument that somehow this percentage has increased to 30 or 35 points and they now need more Russian oil is absurd,” stated senior U.S. trade and manufacturing advisor Peter Navarro.

Indian refiners have come under fire from U.S. representatives, who have labeled them as a 'laundry for the Kremlin,' as they profit from reselling Russian oil. The U.S. imposed tariffs on Indian goods and threatens to increase them further to stop financing Russian aggression.

“India and Russia aim to increase the annual trade volume by about 50% over the next five years — to $100 billion, and reduce mutual tariffs. This is due to the growing tension in the relations of both countries with the U.S.,” Bloomberg writes.

The struggle between Russia, India, and the U.S. is being leveraged through oil trade. India has identified the Russian Federation as the most beneficial supplier due to the low price of oil. By filling the void left by Europe and building a strategic alliance with Russia, India remains a key player in the market and can influence global policy.

Possible meeting between Putin and the President of India

Another step in strengthening relations may be a meeting between Putin and the President of India. This move would allow for the exchange of views and facilitate further negotiations between the countries. An important meeting between the leaders of both states is expected to take place in the fall of 2025.