Editorial 1: ​On mute

Context

India’s interests can be protected only through a firm assertion of its strategic autonomy.

Introduction

India today stands at a critical crossroads in a rapidly shifting global order. Great-power rivalry, economic coercion, and unilateral actions by dominant states are reshaping international politics. In this environment, India’s cautious responses to external pressures raise important questions about its foreign policy choices. As a rising power with global ambitions, India must balance partnerships with the need to protect its national interests, economic stability, and long-term strategic credibility on the world stage.

Global Geopolitical Turmoil Continues

• The new year has seen no easing of geopolitical tensions sparked by the Trump administration.
• The U.S. began with an unlawful intervention in Venezuela, followed by threats of regime change in other South American countries.
• It has also openly spoken of annexing Greenland, further unsettling the global order.

Escalating U.S. Economic Coercion

• The U.S. Congress is considering legislation to impose tariffs up to 500% on countries importing Russian oil or uranium.
• Against Iran, Washington has intensified its stance by citing crackdowns on protesters, imposing new sanctions, and issuing threats of military action.
• President Trump has announced an additional 25% tariff on any country trading with Iran.
• The U.S. is also pressuring India to withdraw from the Chabahar port project, despite India’s significant financial investments there.

Muted Response from New Delhi

• In response to these aggressive unilateral actions, India’s reactions have been restrained, and at times weak.
• The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed only “deep concern” over Venezuela, without condemning the kidnapping of the Venezuelan President and his wife or the breach of international law.
• No official statements were issued regarding threats to Cuba or Colombia, likely because they are not seen as immediate strategic concerns for India.

Silence on Iran Despite Close Ties

• India’s response to developments in Iran, a neighbouring country with deep historical ties, has been particularly confusing.
• The government has avoided commenting on street protests or U.S. threats of strikes and tariffs.
• Instead, the MEA has limited itself to issuing travel advisories for Iran and Israel and preparing evacuation plansfor Indian students.
• Officials have also indicated that India will further reduce trade with Iran, already at very low levels.

Reasons Behind India’s Caution

• The reluctance to directly criticise the U.S. appears driven by hopes of reviving bilateral relations after a tense year.
• With the India–U.S. Bilateral Trade Agreement still unresolved, there is optimism about progress, fuelled by assurances from the U.S. Ambassador to India.
• Prospects include renewed trade talks and India’s inclusion in the U.S. high-technology partnership ‘Pax Silica’.
• Policymakers may believe that speaking out now could risk another dip in relations, with little immediate gain.

Costs of Strategic Silence

• Each new U.S. threat is already hurting ordinary Indians and placing strain on the Indian economy.
• India risks economic losses, damage to its global reputation, and strain on other international partnerships, especially as it prepares to host the BRICS+ Summit.

Lesson from the Past

• The government’s experience in 2019, when India halted imports of Iranian and Venezuelan oil under U.S. pressure, offers a clear warning.
• Appeasement of a global power does not safeguard India’s interests.
• Only a firm assertion of strategic autonomy can effectively protect India’s economic, political, and diplomatic priorities.

Conclusion

Ultimately, India’s experience shows that silence and accommodation do not guarantee security or prosperity. Yielding to external pressure has often resulted in economic losses, diplomatic constraints, and erosion of policy independence. To safeguard its interests and uphold its global standing, India must act with confidence and clarity. A consistent assertion of strategic autonomy - rather than dependence or appeasement—is essential for preserving India’s sovereignty, strengthening partnerships, and shaping a balanced, multipolar world order.