A Kremlin-backed media campaign during the 26-27 June Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) defense ministers’ summit heavily focused on India’s activities and Russo-Indian relations. Over 70% of the Kremlin’s messaging highlighted the Indian delegation’s summit activities, specifically emphasizing Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh’s and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval’s meetings with Russian and Chinese counterparts. Posts also highlighted Russian arms sales to India, particularly S-400 missile systems and Su-30 jets, and linked India’s rearmament efforts to Operation Sindoor, an early May military operation against alleged terrorist sites. Only 3% of messaging mentioned SCO member Iran’s participation, and 7% focused on China’s activities. This extensive coverage of India suggests a deliberate Kremlin effort to portray India as an integral SCO member and a valued partner, especially as India faces U.S. pressure regarding its S-400 procurements and potential F-35 jet acquisition.
