Putin: India Will Not Bow to US Pressure, Praises Modi’s Leadership
Russian President Vladimir Putin has cautioned Washington against trying to pressure New Delhi into halting the purchase of Russian oil. He asserted that India would never accept humiliation from any country.
Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin questioned the logic behind such pressure. He explained that if India were to abandon Russian energy resources, the economic loss could reach around 9 to 10 billion dollars. At the same time, if New Delhi resists the demand, it would face sanctions of a similar cost, along with political challenges at home. According to Putin, this makes refusal unnecessary. He emphasized that Indian citizens would never allow their country to be humiliated and expressed confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would not take such a step.
Putin further argued that any losses faced by India due to US tariffs could be offset through continued crude oil imports from Russia. He added that India would also strengthen its image as an independent and sovereign nation. He described Prime Minister Modi as a balanced, wise, and nationally committed leader.
The comments followed remarks from US President Donald Trump, who called on India, Europe, and China to stop buying Russian oil in order to reduce Moscow’s resources for the war in Ukraine.
Putin also highlighted the longstanding partnership between Moscow and New Delhi. He recalled that about fifteen years ago, both nations had announced a privileged strategic partnership, which remains the most accurate description of their relations. He stressed that Indians value this relationship deeply and praised Modi as a leader who prioritizes the interests of his country above all else.
The Russian leader also issued a warning that restrictions on Russian energy supplies would have severe effects on the global economy, driving oil prices sharply higher. He underlined the importance of resolving trade and payment mechanisms with India, suggesting that these matters could be addressed within BRICS or through other frameworks.
On the subject of the ongoing war in Ukraine, Putin accused NATO countries of direct involvement. He claimed that Western instructors are not only training Ukrainian forces but also participating in combat. He alleged that a European center was created to provide intelligence, logistical support, weapons, and training for the Ukrainian military.