Web Desk (MNN); Russian President Vladimir Putin has challenged Washington’s objections to India’s purchase of Russian oil, pointing out that the United States itself continues to import Russian nuclear fuel. His remarks came as he began a state visit to India aimed at deepening bilateral ties.
Putin landed in New Delhi on Thursday evening, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi received him at the airport with an unusually warm embrace, reflecting the close personal rapport between the two leaders.
The visit comes at a time when India is under growing pressure from US President Donald Trump, who has imposed heavy tariffs on Indian exports in response to New Delhi’s growing imports of discounted Russian crude.
Speaking to Indian broadcasters ahead of the trip, Putin questioned the rationale behind the US stance. He said Washington buys Russian nuclear fuel for American power plants and argued that India should therefore enjoy the same freedom to trade with Moscow.
Modi expressed happiness over Putin’s visit, calling him a friend and saying their partnership has always delivered positive outcomes for the people of both countries. After their meeting at the airport, the two leaders proceeded to a private dinner at Modi’s residence.
Analysts say the grand reception for the Russian president is meant to signal that he is not isolated internationally despite Western pressure over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. They also believe Modi intends to show he will not bow to pressure from President Trump.
Putin defended the energy partnership with India, saying cooperation remains stable despite political shifts or the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He accused certain actors of attempting to undermine India due to its rising influence on the global stage.
India continues to navigate a complex balancing act between Moscow and Washington. Its imports of Russian oil have risen dramatically—from 2.5 percent of total crude purchases before 2022 to nearly 36 percent today—making India the second-largest global buyer of Russian crude. Indian refiners have saved about 12.20 dollars per barrel by turning to discounted supplies.
However, Trump has retaliated with 50 percent tariffs on Indian goods, while new US sanctions on major Russian oil companies have forced Indian refiners to scale back imports. Reliance, India’s largest private refinery operator, has already announced it will stop exporting petroleum products made from Russian crude.
Putin and Modi are set to meet formally on Friday to sign agreements covering defence, shipping, healthcare and labour mobility. Russia is pushing to sell additional S-400 missile systems and Su-57 fighter jets to India. Both sides aim to reach 100 billion dollars in bilateral trade by 2030, though the target now appears difficult amid falling oil imports.
