Russia and Indonesia Discuss Strengthening Defense and Security Ties

On Tuesday, as the conflict in Ukraine marked its fourth year, steps were taken to renew defense relations by a meeting between a top Russian security official and Indonesia’s defense minister-held in Jakarta. According to reports from the Russian news agency RIA Novosti, the Secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council Sergei Shoigu is to conduct talks with Indonesia’s Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin to look into ways and means of strengthening their defense partnership.

The visit of Shoigu opens a five-day Asian trip to Malaysia after this one stops in Jakarta. This visit occurred shortly after Indonesia joined the BRICS group of developing economies, consisting of countries such as Russia, one of the founding members.

Just prior to the arrival of Shoigu in Jakarta, an official stated that issues on the table for discussion include international and regional affairs, as Russia now wants to focus on strengthening the defense relationship with Southeast Asian countries.

Before flying off to Malaysia on Wednesday, Shoigu will also pay a courtesy visit to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.

Shoigu was silent to the media after his meeting with Sjafrie. Brig. Gen. Frega Wenas of Indonesia's Defense Ministry stated to reporters that both Moscow and Jakarta "share a common ambition to expand and strengthen our defense relationship," adding that Shoigu's visit demonstrated a strong commitment to their bilateral ties.

Last November, both navies conducted a joint exercise in Indonesia East Java Sea. Jakarta had also acquired Sukhoi fighter jets, BTR-80A military transport vehicles, combat vehicles, helicopters, and assault rifles, among other Russian defence equipment.

That agenda also pertains to the construction of submarines, frigates, and more fighter jets, as well as increased defense cooperation with other countries. Last August, the incoming president met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin.

Whenever Indonesia can stay neutral, it will stay neutral. Subianto's predecessor Joko Widodo was the first Asian leader to visit Moscow and Kyiv in July 2022 in an effort to advocate a ceasefire.