India sends Russia critical missile explosives - Reuters
Photo: the consequences of Russia's missile strike on Kyiv on June 17 (Vitalii Nosach/RBC-Ukraine)
An Indian firm supplied Russia with explosive material used in missiles. The US warned of potential sanctions over such deals, Reuters reports.
In December 2024, an Indian company shipped explosive material known as HMX or octogen to Russia, worth $1.4 million, according to Indian customs data reviewed by Reuters.
One of the recipients was the Russian company Promsintez, which the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) links to the military sector.
Ukraine's intelligence service reported that in April, the Promsintez plant was targeted in a drone strike. HMX is widely used in missile and torpedo warheads, rocket motors, and other military systems.
US considers material critically important
The US Department of Defense classifies HMX as a critical material necessary for Russia's military machine. The US Treasury Department had previously warned of possible sanctions for those aiding in such shipments.
Until now, HMX deliveries to Russia had not been publicly reported. Russian arms manufacturers are operating at full capacity to support the invasion of Ukraine, which began in 2022.
India maintains trade with Russia
Despite its growing ties with the US, India continues to maintain close economic relations with Russia. This is especially visible in the active purchase of Russian oil, which has drawn concern from the West.
US President Donald Trump has already threatened a 100% tariff on countries that buy Russian oil. Meanwhile, the US Treasury continues to warn that HMX deliveries could lead to sanctions.
Delhi insists it's following law
India's Ministry of External Affairs said that the export of dual-use products is conducted in line with international obligations and through strict legal regulations. One Indian official noted that HMX can be used for civilian purposes, though it's more commonly known as a military-grade component.
The US State Department did not comment on the specific shipments but confirmed it has repeatedly warned India about the risk of sanctions. Washington sees India as a strategic partner, but urges caution in dealings with Russia.
Factories in Samara region receive cargo
According to Reuters, in December, the company Ideal Detonators Private Limited sent two shipments of HMX to St. Petersburg. One was valued at $405,000, and the other at over $1 million.
The recipients were Promsintez and High Technology Initiation Systems, both located in the Samara region. Neither party to the transaction commented on the information provided to journalists.
Reaction from US and Ukraine
Ukrainian presidential adviser Vladyslav Vlasiuk confirmed that Promsintez had already appeared in investigations regarding cooperation with Indian partners. Ukrainian authorities have recorded specific cases of circumventing sanctions involving India.
US officials pointed out that sanctions under the Joe Biden administration have been applied selectively. Under Trump, sanction enforcement nearly came to a halt, and it remains unclear whether new measures will be taken against Indian suppliers.
Meanwhile, India and China became the main buyers of Russian oil after the start of Russia's war against Ukraine. This alone allows Moscow to sustain its war machine by funding weapons production.
According to surveys, Ukrainians view India as a hostile country. It is grouped with others such as China, North Korea, and Iran.
