Russia and Indonesia Strengthen Defense Ties Amidst Ukraine War

Amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine, Russia and Indonesia took steps to strengthen their defense ties with a meeting between top officials in Jakarta.

Sergei Shoigu, secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council, met with Indonesia's Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin to discuss ways to deepen their defense partnership. The meeting also included discussions on cooperation in other areas of mutual interest.

Shoigu's visit to Indonesia, the first stop in a five-day Asia tour, comes after Indonesia's admission as a full member to the BRICS bloc of developing economies, where Russia is a founding member.

Indonesian officials stated that the meeting would allow for an exchange of views on international and regional issues, reflecting Russia's desire to deepen its defense engagement with Southeast Asian countries.

Following the meeting, Shoigu paid a courtesy call on Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto before departing for Malaysia.

Indonesia's Defense Ministry spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Frega Wenas, emphasized the shared ambition to broaden and deepen the defense relationship between the two countries. He also highlighted Shoigu's visit as a reflection of the highest-level commitment to bilateral ties.

Indonesia and Russia have a history of collaboration, including a joint naval drill in November 2024 and the purchase of Russian defense equipment by Indonesia. President Subianto has prioritized strengthening Indonesia's military and seeks to acquire submarines, frigates, and more fighter jets, while also increasing defense cooperation with other countries.

Despite the ongoing war in Ukraine, Indonesia has maintained a neutral position. President Subianto's predecessor, Joko Widodo, was the first Asian leader to visit both Moscow and Kyiv in July 2022, aiming to facilitate a ceasefire.