Post by : Naveen Mittal

Photo: X / vanguardintel

India Takes Part in Russia-Belarus Military Drills Amid Nuclear Rehearsals

Introduction

India has joined Russia and Belarus in large-scale military drills called Zapad-2025, where tactical nuclear weapons and advanced missiles were rehearsed. These war games, involving more than 100,000 troops, come at a time of global tension, strained US-India relations, and Russia’s continuing war with Ukraine.

Alongside India, Iran and several other nations also sent troops, highlighting shifting alliances on the world stage.

India’s Role in the Drills

The Indian Ministry of Defence confirmed that it sent 65 personnel, including soldiers from the Kumaon Regiment, to take part in the event. Officials said the purpose was to build cooperation and mutual trust with Russia, which has been India’s traditional defence partner.

This is not India’s first time participating in Russian-led exercises. In 2021, just before Russia’s full invasion of Ukraine, India had also sent troops for drills focusing on counter-terrorism and conventional operations.

Nuclear Weapons Rehearsal

The Zapad-2025 drills were notable because Russia and Belarus openly rehearsed the use of tactical nuclear weapons. The exercises also showcased the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, which Russia first used in Ukraine in late 2023.

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko defended the inclusion of nuclear weapons in the drills. He said: “We are practising everything, from small arms to nuclear warheads. Otherwise, why would they be on Belarusian territory? But we are not planning to threaten anyone.”

Putin Observes the Exercises

Russian President Vladimir Putin made a surprise visit to the Nizhny Novgorod region to oversee the drills. Wearing military uniform, he listened to reports from Defence Minister Andrei Belousov and his deputy.

Putin said the exercises were meant to practise defending the “union state” of Russia and Belarus, sending a message of military strength to Europe and NATO.

US Observes the Drills

Interestingly, the United States confirmed that its military officials attended the drills in Belarus after receiving an invitation. A Pentagon spokesperson said it was part of normal military-to-military practices, especially after recent bilateral talks.

This shows that even as Washington condemns Moscow’s war in Ukraine, it still watches closely and seeks to keep some communication channels open.

Other Countries That Participated

Besides India, Russia, and Belarus, troops from Iran, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Mali also joined the event.

Iran’s presence was particularly important. Tehran and Moscow have become close partners, with Iran supplying drones and missiles to Russia during the Ukraine war. Recently, both nations signed a strategic partnership treaty, further deepening their cooperation.

India Balancing Between Russia and the US

India’s participation comes at a sensitive time. For decades, India bought most of its weapons from Russia, dating back to the Soviet era. In recent years, however, India has grown closer to the United States for trade, defence, and as a counterbalance to China.

But tensions have recently appeared. The Trump administration imposed 50 percent tariffs on Indian imports, accusing New Delhi of helping Russia by purchasing discounted oil during the Ukraine war. This move has strained India-US ties, raising concerns in Washington that New Delhi may tilt back towards Moscow.

Despite the disagreements, Trump has continued talks with India. He recently spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 75th birthday, calling him a “friend,” while both sides promised to keep negotiating on trade disputes.

Growing Iran-Russia Alignment

Iran’s role in Zapad-2025 reflects its deeper alignment with Russia. The two nations not only held joint drills in the Caspian Sea but also stood together during rising conflicts with Israel and the United States.

Western intelligence says Iran has supplied Russia with self-detonating drones and possibly ballistic missiles. This cooperation has alarmed Europe and NATO, who see the drills as a show of force designed to intimidate.

Europe on Edge

Poland and NATO recently reported shooting down Russian drones that entered Polish airspace, adding to European fears. For them, the inclusion of nuclear weapons in drills so close to their borders signals an escalation.

Conclusion

The Zapad-2025 military exercises underline the fragile balance of global power. India’s presence shows its ongoing reliance on Russia for defence, even while trying to strengthen ties with the United States.

For Russia and Belarus, the drills were a clear warning to Europe and NATO, proving that they are prepared to use every weapon at their disposal, including nuclear arms. For Iran, it was another step in cementing its alliance with Moscow.

As the world watches these developments, the message is clear: global military rivalries are deepening, and nations like India are carefully walking the tightrope between old friendships and new partnerships.