Russian President Vladimir Putin has challenged the United States’ pressure on India to reduce purchases of Russian oil, arguing that if the US has the right to buy Russian fuel, India should enjoy the same freedom. Putin made the comments during a two-day state visit to New Delhi, where he received a warm and rare airport welcome from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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Putin Highlights US Purchases of Russian Nuclear Fuel
In an interview with India Today, Putin emphasized that the US itself continues to buy Russian nuclear fuel for its power plants. He questioned the logic behind Washington urging India to cut ties with Moscow while maintaining its own energy relationship with Russia.
Putin said, “If the US has the right to buy our fuel, why shouldn’t India have the same privilege?” He also signaled openness to discussing the issue directly with US President Donald Trump.
Trade Decline Amid US Tariffs and Tighter Sanctions
India’s crude oil imports from Russia are expected to fall to a three-year low this month. The drop follows two major developments:
- A punitive 50% US tariff imposed by the Trump administration on Indian goods
- Tightened US sanctions targeting Russian energy trade
Washington argues that India’s purchase of discounted Russian oil indirectly supports Moscow’s war in Ukraine. India has rejected this claim, calling the tariffs unjustified and highlighting ongoing US imports of Russian energy.
India–Russia Energy Ties Remain Strong
Despite recent pressure, Putin stated that overall bilateral trade remains stable and that Russia–India oil trade continues “smoothly.” He acknowledged a slight decline in trade in early 2025, describing it as “a minor adjustment.”
India has been Russia’s largest buyer of seaborne oil since 2022, taking advantage of steep discounts amid Western sanctions.
Modi Welcomes Putin With Rare Airport Gesture
Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally received Putin at the Delhi airport—a gesture rarely extended to foreign leaders, underscoring the strong strategic partnership between the two countries.
The two leaders embraced on the tarmac before heading to a private dinner. A high-profile Russian business delegation and senior ministers are accompanying Putin for the visit.
Modi posted on X: “Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin to India. India–Russia friendship is time-tested and has greatly benefited our people.”
India and Russia Aim for $100 Billion Trade by 2030
Bilateral trade surged from $13 billion in 2021 to nearly $69 billion by 2024–25, largely driven by India’s energy imports. However, trade dipped to $28.25 billion between April and August 2025 due to lower crude purchases.
To rebalance trade, Russia aims to increase imports of Indian goods. India, meanwhile, is seeking new markets to offset the impact of the US tariff.
Indian Trade Minister Piyush Goyal said India wants to expand exports to Russia in sectors such as:
- Automobiles
- Electronics
- Heavy machinery
- Industrial components
- Textiles
- Processed food and agriculture products
Conclusion
Putin’s remarks highlight growing geopolitical tensions as India tries to maintain balanced relationships with both the US and Russia. While Washington pushes New Delhi to cut energy ties with Moscow, India continues to defend its right to buy affordable fuel. As both nations work to diversify trade and strengthen cooperation, the India–Russia partnership remains a key pillar of New Delhi’s foreign policy—even under rising global pressure.