New Delhi: India has officially joined the Zapad-2025 military exercises being held in Belarus alongside Russian and Belarusian forces. A contingent of 65 Indian armed forces personnel is participating in the drills, which include advanced manoeuvres such as the launch of tactical nuclear weapons and hypersonic missile operations.
The large-scale exercise comes at a time when Russia and Belarus are showcasing their military strength close to NATO’s borders. The event has drawn significant international attention, not only because of the scale of the drills but also because of India’s presence, which many see as a strong reaffirmation of its defence ties with Moscow.
The timing is notable. New Delhi has faced diplomatic unease with Washington in recent months following the US decision to impose steep tariffs on Indian exports. India’s participation in a Russian-led drill is expected to add another layer of complexity to its already delicate foreign policy equation.
Officials in New Delhi, however, downplayed the geopolitical implications, describing India’s involvement as part of its regular defence cooperation and training programmes. They stressed that the contingent’s role is limited and symbolic, highlighting India’s long-standing tradition of strategic autonomy.
Military analysts believe the move reflects India’s attempt to strike a balance between its deepening partnerships with the US and Europe and its enduring military ties with Russia. Despite efforts in recent years to diversify arms imports, Russia continues to be one of India’s largest defence partners.
Internationally, the exercises have raised eyebrows. Western observers point out that by attending drills that simulate nuclear weapon launches, India may invite criticism from its allies. At the same time, they note that New Delhi’s presence does not amount to endorsing Russia’s actions but underlines its preference for maintaining diverse strategic partnerships.
The Zapad-2025 exercises are expected to continue over the coming weeks, with Russia and Belarus using the platform to send strong signals of military readiness. For India, the real test may lie in managing the diplomatic fallout, ensuring its symbolic presence in Belarus does not undermine its growing partnerships with the West.
India’s participation underlines the complexities of its foreign policy—balancing historical defence cooperation with Moscow while navigating the pressures of an evolving global order.