India-Russia Summit Amid US Pressure

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited New Delhi for a two-day summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing that the India-Russia collaboration is not directed against any country but aims to safeguard their national interests. This visit occurred amidst Washington's aggressive stance towards both India and Russia, including the imposition of a 50% tariff on Indian goods and 25% levies on India's procurement of Russian crude oil. Vladimir Putin highlighted that certain 'actors' dislike India's growing role in international markets due to its ties with Russia and are attempting to constrain its influence. He noted that energy cooperation between India and Russia remains largely unaffected by Western sanctions and the Ukraine conflict. Vladimir Putin also questioned the United States' objections to India's Russian oil purchases, pointing out that the United States itself buys Russian nuclear fuel. Discussions also covered the use of national currencies for over 90% of India-Russia transactions and Russia's commitment to sharing, rather than just selling, defense technology with India. Donald Trump's administration has been critical of India's continued imports of Russian oil, leading to increased tariffs, although Donald Trump later suggested these tariffs might be reduced. Reliance Industries temporarily halted Russian oil imports, impacting India's overall purchases. Vladimir Putin praised Narendra Modi's leadership, stating that India cannot be pressured as it was decades ago, and expressed confidence that Donald Trump sincerely seeks a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict.