During a high-profile meeting in Delhi, Russian President Vladimir Putin assured India of Moscow’s commitment to providing “uninterrupted shipments” of fuel, directly challenging U.S. pressure on New Delhi to cease purchasing Russian oil. The bilateral talks between Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted growing geopolitical tensions as the United States imposes significant tariffs on Indian products in response to India’s continued energy trade with Russia.
Putin pointedly questioned the logic behind U.S. sanctions, noting that America itself continues to purchase nuclear fuel from Russia. “The United States itself still buys nuclear fuel from us for its own nuclear power plants. If the US has the right to buy our fuel, why shouldn’t India have the same privilege?” he asked during an interview with India Today.
The meeting occurred against the backdrop of deteriorating India-U.S. relations, which have reached an all-time low due to unresolved tariff disputes. The U.S. has imposed 50% tariffs on most Indian products, citing India’s oil purchases as indirectly funding Russia’s war in Ukraine—an accusation India firmly denies.
While addressing the Ukraine conflict, Putin presented an ultimatum: “Either we liberate these territories by force, or Ukrainian troops will leave these territories.” Meanwhile, Modi reiterated India’s position of supporting peace and seeking a lasting solution to the conflict, without explicitly endorsing either side.
The leaders announced several bilateral agreements, including new visa schemes for Russian tourists, the opening of Indian consulates in Russia, and the launch of Russia Today in India. They also signed memorandums covering trade, agriculture, shipbuilding, civil nuclear energy, and critical minerals. Notably, both countries agreed on an economic program extending through 2030, with ambitions to increase bilateral trade from $60 billion to $100 billion.
Energy security emerged as a cornerstone of the partnership, though Modi avoided specific mention of oil. India, the world’s third-largest crude consumer, has significantly increased Russian oil imports since 2022 but recently begun reducing them to comply with U.S. sanctions.
The joint statement emphasized a strategic reorientation toward joint research, development, and production of advanced defense platforms. Both leaders also highlighted their cooperation within BRICS, positioning the alliance as promoting a “more just” and “multi-polar” world order.