Putin criticizes U.S. tariffs, praises India-Russia ties and Modi’s leadership
Moscow
Russian President Vladimir Putin has sharply criticised the United States for pressuring India to reduce its Russian oil imports, stating that India would never “bow to such demands or be humiliated.” Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “balanced and wise leader” and highlighted the long-standing, trust-based relationship between India and Russia.
Putin said India’s continued oil purchases were based on economic logic, not politics. He noted that refusing Russian oil would cost India around $9–10 billion and questioned why India should suffer such losses when US sanctions would have the same financial impact. He emphasised India’s independent stance, saying its people would not allow national humiliation and Modi would never act against the country’s interests.
Putin’s remarks come after former US President Donald Trump accused India and China of funding the Ukraine war by buying Russian oil. In response, the US raised tariffs on Indian exports to 50% as punishment.
Putin warned these tariffs could raise global prices and force the US Federal Reserve to maintain high interest rates. He also praised India for remembering Russia’s historical support and stressed that there have never been tensions between the two nations.
Calling Modi his “friend,” Putin proposed boosting imports of Indian agricultural products and pharmaceuticals to correct the trade imbalance. He highlighted the upcoming 15th anniversary of the Indo-Russian “Special Strategic Privileged Partnership” and reaffirmed the two nations’ ongoing political cooperation despite Western pressure.
