Putin Praises Modi, Reaffirms India-Russia Ties Amid US Tariff Pressure

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday lauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reaffirmed Moscow’s ties with New Delhi, amid escalating trade tensions with the United States. Earlier, the US imposed 50% tariffs on certain Indian goods, including oil imports from Russia, aiming to pressure both nations over the Ukraine conflict.

At the Valdai Discussion Forum in southern Russia, Putin defended India’s stance on Russian energy. “Ending oil trade with Russia could cost India $9–10 billion, while refusing carries the risk of sanctions. The Indian people will never allow themselves to be humiliated… I know Prime Minister Modi will not make such decisions,” he said, adding that losses from US tariffs would be offset by Russian crude imports.

Putin also underscored the historic and strategic India-Russia partnership, recalling a privileged strategic partnership announced 15 years ago. “People in India remember and value our relations… Prime Minister Modi is a very wise leader who thinks first about his country,” he said.

To address trade imbalances, Putin noted plans to import more agricultural products and pharmaceuticals from India, while highlighting logistical challenges that need resolving to expand bilateral economic cooperation.

Putin’s remarks also highlighted personal camaraderie with Modi, recalling their warm interactions at the recent SCO Summit in China, including a hug and a shared car ride. In parallel, former US President Donald Trump briefly softened his stance, praising Modi as a “great prime minister,” though he later criticized India and China at the UN General Assembly for continuing to purchase Russian oil, accusing them of financing the Ukraine war.