India Won’t Bow to Humiliation”: Putin Praises Modi Amid Trade Tensions with US

Putin Lauds PM Modi, Says India Will Not Bow to US Pressure Over Russian Oil.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “balanced and wise leader” while hitting out at the United States for pressuring India to halt its imports of Russian crude. Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin said India would never allow itself to be humiliated and emphasized the “special” nature of Russia-India relations.

Describing India’s oil imports as a “purely economic calculation,” Putin noted that refusing Russian crude would cost India $9–10 billion, while continuing purchases risks US sanctions. “So why refuse if it also carries domestic political costs?” he asked, adding that the Indian public would closely monitor decisions and support a sovereign stance.

Putin’s remarks follow US President Donald Trump’s recent accusation that China and India are “primary funders” of the Ukraine war for buying Russian oil. The US has imposed additional tariffs on Indian exports, raising the total to 50%. Putin warned that such tariffs could increase global prices and force the US Federal Reserve to keep interest rates high.

Highlighting the long-standing relationship, Putin recalled India’s historical ties with the Soviet Union and said Moscow has “never had any problems or interstate tensions” with India. He also indicated that Russia may increase purchases of Indian agricultural products and pharmaceuticals to reduce trade imbalances.

Looking ahead, Putin noted that the special strategic partnership between Russia and India will soon celebrate its 15th anniversary, calling it a “truly privileged” relationship marked by close political coordination.