Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to supplying fuel to India without interruption, even as New Delhi faces intense pressure from the United States to halt its oil imports from Russia.
The US government, under President Donald Trump, imposed steep 50 percent tariffs on most Indian goods in August, citing India’s continued purchase of Russian crude — revenue Washington argues supports Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine.
During a high-profile summit in New Delhi focused on energy, defence, and trade cooperation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked Putin for his consistent support toward India. This visit marks Putin’s first trip to India since the Ukraine conflict began, and he was welcomed with full state honours, including an inspection of the guard and a 21-gun salute.
Putin highlighted Russia’s role as a dependable supplier across various energy sectors.
“Russia is a reliable supplier of oil, gas, coal, and everything needed for India’s energy development,” he said. “We are ready to continue uninterrupted shipments of fuel for the fast-growing Indian economy.”
Modi acknowledged the importance of energy cooperation in the India–Russia relationship, stressing its long-standing significance. While he referenced collaboration on nuclear energy, he avoided direct mention of oil supplies.
India has become a key destination for discounted Russian crude since the Ukraine war began, offering Moscow a vital export option as European nations scaled back their imports. In 2024, Russian crude accounted for nearly 36 percent of India’s total imports — about 1.8 million barrels per day. However, Indian purchases have recently declined due to rising pressure from Washington.
Putin noted that he had briefed Modi extensively on developments in Ukraine and ongoing efforts toward a potential peaceful settlement, involving discussions with several partners, including the United States.
India continues to juggle its strategic ties, balancing its dependence on Russian energy with its delicate tariff negotiations with Washington. Analysts say such balancing acts are a hallmark of Indian foreign policy.
Addressing Putin as “my friend,” Modi praised the strength of India–Russia relations and announced a new economic cooperation plan running through 2030. The agreements signed during the summit cover employment, healthcare, chemicals, and shipping, among other sectors. The goal, Modi said, is to build trade that is “diversified, balanced, and sustainable.”
Bilateral trade climbed to $68.7 billion in 2024–25, nearly six times higher than before the pandemic. However, India’s exports remain low at just $4.88 billion, highlighting the need for a more balanced trade structure.
Despite Russia’s historical dominance in India’s arms imports, New Delhi has gradually widened its defence partnerships and increased domestic production. Russia’s share of India’s arms purchases fell from 76 percent in 2009–13 to 36 percent in 2019–23, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.
This week’s discussions included advanced defence technologies — air defence systems, fighter jets, and nuclear submarines — as well as India’s push for broader access to the Russian market.
Putin is expected to conclude his visit later on Friday after a state banquet.
