Varanasi, Oct. 18 -- Ahead of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit to India, Defence and foreign affairs expert Sanjeev Srivastava on Sunday said the Trump administration's decision to temporarily pause sanctions and tariffs linked to Russian oil imports reflects its recognition of India's significance as a strategic partner.

Speaking to ANI, Srivastava said Rubio's recent remarks describing India as an "important ally" and acknowledging its energy requirements were significant in the context of bilateral ties and the evolving global situation.

"Clearly, President Donald Trump has postponed the implementation of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. This step taken by the Trump administration will undoubted...