During a discussion in Sochi, Vladimir Putin praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a ‘wise leader’ focused on his nation’s interests. Putin underscored the unique and special relationship shared by India and Russia. He referenced their privileged strategic partnership, initiated about fifteen years prior. Putin’s remarks come in anticipation of his visit to India later this year, preceded by a trip by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to prepare for the summit and address various bilateral issues. At the UN General Assembly, Lavrov had already announced the planned visit by the Russian President to New Delhi in December. Additionally, Putin addressed the matter of US tariffs imposed on Indian imports, noting the potential financial losses if India were to stop buying Russian oil. He showed his confidence that PM Modi would not yield to any external pressure, supporting India’s strategic independence. Putin’s commentary follows earlier statements by Donald Trump, who accused China and India of supporting the Ukraine war by purchasing Russian oil.
