Putin Backs Modi Amid US Pressure on India-Russia Relations

Putin's Support for Modi

During a recent meeting with global news agency leaders in St. Petersburg, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed strong support for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He criticized the United States for its attempts to distance India from its ties with Russia, stating that such efforts are counterproductive. Putin remarked, "Yes, it is true that the United States tries to exert pressure on India on certain issues, especially regarding cooperation with Russia."

US Pressure on India

Putin's comments came in light of Washington's ongoing pressure on India to reduce its imports of Russian crude oil, a contentious issue as India strengthens its economic relations with Moscow. He dismissed the American strategy, asserting that pressuring Modi is ineffective. He emphasized that attempts to sway India's decisions regarding its partnership with Russia could harm international and bilateral relations. "I believe everyone has understood by now that trying to pressure a leader like Prime Minister Modi is completely futile. He makes decisions in the interest of India's 1.5 billion people and does not bow to anyone's pressure," Putin stated.

Strength of India-Russia Relations

Putin firmly stated that external pressures have not affected the India-Russia relationship. He noted, "Therefore, we do not see any harm or threat in this partnership." Despite India's growing strategic ties with the United States, Putin expressed no concerns, viewing India's cooperation with other nations as complementary rather than a threat to the longstanding partnership with Russia.

Economic Prospects

Beyond political matters, Putin praised India as a significant democracy and a reliable partner. He expressed optimism about the future of bilateral trade, predicting it could reach $100 billion in the coming years. Putin reaffirmed Russia's commitment to enhancing its relationship with India, highlighting the nation's potential as a dependable ally.