Russian President Vladimir Putin assured Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of uninterrupted oil supplies, reinforcing the resilience of their partnership amid U.S. pressure during their recent meeting in New Delhi.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has pledged that Moscow will continue supplying oil to India without disruption, marking a significant stance against U.S. pressure during his recent meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The two leaders underscored the strength of the India–Russia relationship, asserting that it remains robust and resistant to external influences.
The remarks followed the annual India–Russia summit and appeared to be a direct response to increasing Western efforts, particularly from Washington, aimed at discouraging India from deepening its energy ties with Moscow.
In August, U.S. President Joe Biden imposed a 25% import tariff on India as a punitive measure for purchasing discounted Russian oil. The U.S. administration claimed that these purchases were aiding Russia in financing its war in Ukraine and undermining U.S. sanctions.
New Delhi condemned the tariffs as “unreasonable” and “unjustified,” reminding Washington that its strategic partnership with Russia spans decades, particularly in areas of defense and geopolitical cooperation. Putin made it clear that Moscow would not alter its energy strategy in light of American pressure.
“Russia is a dependable supplier of energy resources and all essentials for India’s energy development. We will continue guaranteeing the uninterrupted flow of fuel to support India’s fast-growing economy,” Putin stated.
While Modi did not directly address oil during their discussions, he emphasized that energy security has always been a “key pillar” of the India–Russia partnership.
In a televised interview prior to the summit, Putin openly criticized U.S. objections to India’s oil purchases, questioning the double standards of Washington.
“If the U.S. has the right to buy our nuclear fuel, why shouldn’t India have the same privilege?” he asked.
This visit marked Putin’s first trip to India since the onset of the invasion of Ukraine, and both leaders appeared committed to demonstrating that their partnership remains steadfast.
Modi personally welcomed Putin at the airport—an uncommon gesture—followed by a warm embrace and a private dinner, underscoring the closeness between the two leaders.
In their joint statement, Modi described the India–Russia relationship as a “guiding star” built on mutual trust and long-standing ties that have “always stood the test of time.”
Both countries affirmed that, despite global tensions, their partnership remains strong and unaffected by geopolitical pressures. Putin has recently intensified outreach to India and China as Russia faces stringent economic sanctions from the U.S. and the European Union.
The summit concluded with significant agreements aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. Both nations finalized an economic cooperation program extending to 2030, with the goal of doubling bilateral trade to $100 billion annually by that year.
In terms of defense cooperation, Russia continues to be India’s largest supplier, although India has been diversifying its sources in recent years. While specific weapons systems were not detailed, both sides agreed on joint production of advanced defense platforms and strengthening long-term military collaboration.
This includes potential cooperation involving advanced Russian systems like the Sukhoi Su-57 or other next-generation platforms, further solidifying the defense ties between the two nations.
The developments from this summit highlight the ongoing commitment of both India and Russia to maintain and enhance their partnership, even in the face of external pressures, particularly from the United States, according to Global Net News.