At the Valdai Discussion Forum in Sochi, Russian President Vladimir Putin took aim at the United States for pressuring India over its continued oil trade with Moscow. Defending New Delhi’s sovereign choices, Putin declared that “India will never allow itself to be humiliated,” underscoring that Washington’s attempts to penalize India are bound to fail.
In a strong endorsement of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Putin hailed him as a “balanced, wise, and nationally oriented” leader, even calling him a personal friend. He emphasized that his interactions with Modi are marked by trust and comfort, highlighting the special bond between the two leaders.
Putin also warned that U.S. actions could backfire economically, pointing out that halting Russian oil imports would cost India $9–10 billion and carry heavy political consequences at home. As a counterbalance, he suggested expanding Russian imports of Indian products, including agriculture and pharmaceuticals, to strengthen bilateral trade.
These remarks come amid soaring tensions between Washington and New Delhi. In August 2025, the U.S. slapped steep tariffs on Indian exports—some as high as 50 percent—in retaliation for India’s energy cooperation with Russia. India condemned the move as unfair, asserting that its energy policy reflects its sovereign rights.
Despite mounting Western criticism that India’s oil purchases indirectly support Russia’s war efforts, New Delhi remains firm. At the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, Modi and Putin reaffirmed their “special and privileged partnership”, with India stressing that its decisions are driven by pragmatism, not politics.
