In a strategic move to bolster their defense relations, Russia and Indonesia convened for discussions in Jakarta on Tuesday as Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine marks its fourth anniversary. Russian Federation Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu met with Indonesia’s Defense Minister, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, to explore avenues for enhancing their defense partnership.
According to reports from the Russian news agency RIA Novosti, the discussions focused on expanding military cooperation between the two nations, alongside other areas of mutual interest. This meeting signifies the commencement of Shoigu’s five-day tour across Asia, with Malaysia being his next destination. This visit coincides with Indonesia’s recent inclusion as a full member of the BRICS bloc—a key economic alliance that counts Russia among its founding members.
Indonesian officials emphasized that the meeting was an opportunity to exchange perspectives on pressing international and regional matters, as Russia seeks to strengthen its military ties with Southeast Asian countries. Prior to leaving for Malaysia, Shoigu is also expected to meet with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto for a formal courtesy call.
After meeting Sjamsoeddin, Shoigu refrained from making any media comments. However, Brig. Gen. Frega Wenas, spokesperson for Indonesia’s Defense Ministry, highlighted that both Moscow and Jakarta share a common goal of expanding their defense relationship. She noted that Shoigu’s visit represents a significant commitment to solidifying bilateral defense ties.
Historically, the defense relationship between Indonesia and Russia has been characterized by activities such as last November’s joint naval drill in Indonesia’s East Java Sea. Indonesia has also acquired a range of Russian military equipment including Sukhoi fighter jets, BTR-80A armored vehicles, helicopters, and assault rifles. President Subianto, focusing on military enhancement as a national priority, has expressed interest in acquiring submarines, frigates, and additional fighter jets, alongside pursuing defense partnerships with other nations. In August, Subianto, then President-elect, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
Since the onset of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Indonesia has maintained a neutral stance. Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo was the first Asian leader to visit both Moscow and Kyiv in July 2022, in a bid to advocate for a cease-fire.
