Putin Backs Deep India-Russia Economic Ties, Assures Uninterrupted Fuel Supply Amid Global Pressure

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday reaffirmed the strength of India-Russia economic and strategic relations, calling it “entirely natural” for the two nations to maintain deep trade ties. He made the statement during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on December 5, following their summit talks.

Speaking on global affairs, President Putin подчерк (stressed) that India and Russia pursue independent foreign policies and jointly support a multipolar world order, particularly through platforms like BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). His remarks come at a time when India is facing intense pressure from the United States to reduce crude oil purchases from Russia.

Putin assured PM Modi that Russia is ready to continue uninterrupted fuel shipments to India despite international pressure. “Russia is a reliable supplier of oil, gas, coal, and everything required for India’s energy development,” Putin said, as quoted by AFP.

Make in India Push

Highlighting industrial cooperation, Putin said Russian enterprises will actively participate in manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, adding that cultural and educational exchanges between both countries continue to grow steadily.

Strategic Partnership and Multipolar World

“Russia and India pursue independent foreign policies and work together for a just and democratic multipolar world order. We are satisfied with our talks and confident that this visit will further strengthen our strategic partnership,” Putin said.

Nuclear Power – A Key Focus Area

Putin also emphasized cooperation in the nuclear power sector, stating that Russia is building India’s largest nuclear power plant at Kudankulam.
“Two out of six reactor units are already operational, while four more are under construction. Once completed, the project will make a major contribution to India’s clean and affordable energy needs,” he said.

Trump Tariffs and Geopolitical Context

The summit gains added significance in the backdrop of 50% tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump on most Indian products in August, citing India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, which Washington claims indirectly funds Moscow’s war in Ukraine. India, however, has consistently asserted its sovereign right to trade based on national interest.

Modi on Energy and Long-Term Economic Cooperation

Prime Minister Modi thanked President Putin for his “unwavering commitment towards India” and underlined that energy security remains a central pillar of the India-Russia partnership.
“We have agreed on an economic cooperation program until 2030. This will ensure that our trade and investment are diversified, balanced, and sustainable,” Modi said. The agreement includes cooperation in jobs, health, shipping, and chemicals.

President Putin’s visit marks his first trip to India in four years, further reinforcing the long-term strategic alignment between the two nations.