Can the U.S. Afford to Push India Away?

How far can Washington pressure India before it risks damaging one of its most important strategic partnerships? In this episode of Statecraft Unfiltered, IWP Broadcast Correspondent Olivia Fanders sits down with Professor Vangala Ram, a former senior U.S. Foreign Service Officer and faculty member at The Institute of World Politics, to examine the growing tensions between the United States and India over economic sanctions, Russian energy imports, and New Delhi's commitment to strategic independence. The conversation explores India's long-standing approach to maintaining relationships with competing global powers, its historical ties with Russia, and the challenges of navigating American economic pressure while protecting its national interests. Professor Ram explains how India's foreign policy traditions, domestic political considerations, and economic priorities influence its relationship with Washington. The discussion also examines China's role in the evolving geopolitical landscape, including the strategic competition between India and China, Russia's growing dependence on Beijing, and the shared security interests that continue to connect Washington and New Delhi. As India seeks to expand its international partnerships and preserve its freedom of action, what does the future hold for U.S.-India relations? Learn more about Professor Vangala Ram: https://www.iwp.edu/faculty/vangala-ram/ Learn more about The Institute of World Politics: https://www.iwp.edu/