Pakistan's Russia Embrace: A Strategic Shift Challenging US and India

• Pakistan's Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi presented credentials to Russian President Putin, signaling strengthening ties.
• Russia and Pakistan's growing closeness is driven by Russia's post-Ukraine war need for new partners and Pakistan's severe economic crisis and energy needs.
• Pakistan began importing Russian crude oil in 2023, with consignments arriving at Karachi port, and is negotiating new oil deals.
• The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) platform has also facilitated increased contact between Russia and Pakistan.
• This partnership, born out of necessity, could strain Pakistan's relations with the US and presents a sensitive issue for India, especially if defense cooperation increases.

Why It Matters: Pakistan's deepening ties with Russia for energy and economic stability signal a strategic pivot with significant geopolitical implications.