Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India has once again revived a familiar sentiment: “Russia is our best friend.” Prime Minister Modi famously told Putin in 2014 that every child in India knows this. What’s interesting is that this bond isn’t just political—ordinary Indians also feel strongly connected to Russia. But what makes this partnership so deep and long-lasting? Here are the five major reasons behind this unique relationship.
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Russia supported India’s independent foreign policy after independence
After India gained independence, one of its biggest goals was to stay free from any global power’s influence. At that time, the United States was closely aligned with Britain, and India feared being drawn into another power bloc. The Soviet Union stepped in and gave India the strategic breathing space it needed. As India adopted the policy of non-alignment, Russia respected India’s choices, supported its independence, and backed it diplomatically at every crucial moment. -
Russia stood firmly with India in the 1971 war
The strongest test of India-Russia friendship came during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. As atrocities increased in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and India faced a massive refugee crisis, the Soviet Union extended full support. When the United States sent its 7th Fleet to the Bay of Bengal in support of Pakistan, the Soviet Navy moved in to protect India. This defining moment cemented Russia’s reputation as a true friend during crisis. Although Moscow did not back India in the 1962 war with China, its decisive support in 1971 overshadowed past differences. -
Strong public trust in Russia
Russia forms the backbone of India’s defence capability. Nearly 29 of the Indian Air Force’s key combat aircraft—such as the Sukhoi-30MKI, MiG-29, and MiG-21—are Russian-origin. Russia has contributed to almost every major capability India possesses: tanks, submarines, missiles, air defence systems, and more. This long-term military partnership has built enormous trust between the two countries and among the Indian public. -
Russia rescued India multiple times at the United Nations
Whenever India faced diplomatic pressure at the UN Security Council, Russia (formerly the Soviet Union) stepped in for support. Moscow has used its veto power four times to safeguard India’s interests. A significant example is the Goa liberation of 1961. After India freed Goa from Portuguese rule, Western nations such as the US, UK, and Canada criticized India and pushed the issue to the UN. Portugal demanded international action against India. But the Soviet Union vetoed these efforts, declaring India’s move completely justified. On issues like Kashmir and other South Asian crises, Russia consistently backed India and prevented resolutions that could corner New Delhi.
