Putin opposes US pressure on India regarding Russian oil during state visit

Russian President Vladimir Putin has openly challenged the United States criticism of Indias oil purchases from Russia, highlighting that the US itself continues to import Russian nuclear fuel. His remarks came as he commenced a state visit designed to reinforce ties between Moscow and New Delhi.

Putin arrived in New Delhi Thursday evening, where Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted him warmly at the airport. The leaders shared a rare, public embrace, signaling a strong personal rapport.

The visit takes place amid growing US pressure on India, with President Donald Trump imposing tariffs on Indian goods in response to New Delhis purchases of discounted Russian crude. Ahead of his arrival, Putin told Indian media that the US had no grounds to criticize Indias energy deals, noting, If the United States can buy Russian nuclear fuel, India should have the same right.

Modi, sharing the moment on social media, wrote that he was delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin to India, describing their relationship as a long-standing partnership that has greatly benefited our people. After the airport greeting, the two leaders traveled together to a private dinner at Modis residence.

Reporting from New Delhi, Al Jazeeras Neha Poonia observed that the warm reception conveyed a clear message: despite Western pressure over Russias actions in Ukraine, some countries remain willing to engage closely with Moscow. The display also suggested Modis intent not to bow to US demands.

Putin emphasized that energy cooperation with India remains unaffected by political shifts or the tragic events in Ukraine, accusing unnamed parties of attempting to restrict India for political reasons due to its growing global influence.

The visit underscores Indias careful balancing act between Moscow and Washington. Since 2022, Indias share of Russian crude imports has jumped from 2.5 percent to nearly 36 percent, making it the worlds second-largest buyer. Indian refiners have benefited from significant discounts, saving roughly $12.20 per barrel on Russian crude.

However, US retaliatory measures, including 50 percent tariffs on Indian exports and sanctions targeting Russian oil producers, have pressured Indian refiners. Reliance, Indias largest private refiner, has already announced it will halt exports of petroleum products derived from Russian crude.

During the two-day visit, Putin and Modi are expected to hold formal summit talks, unveiling agreements covering defence, shipping, healthcare, and labour mobility. Russia is seeking to supply India with additional S-400 missile systems and Su-57 stealth fighters, while both nations aim for $100 billion in bilateral trade by 2030, though the goal faces challenges as oil imports decline.

Analysis: Moscow-New Delhi Energy Dynamics

From my perspective, President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India reinforces a strategic alignment that goes beyond simple diplomacy. His explicit defense of India’s Russian oil imports highlights Moscow’s intention to counteract US pressure, emphasizing energy trade as a sovereign right.

The optics of the airport greeting and private dinner with Prime Minister Narendra Modi demonstrate a personal rapport that translates into tangible policy decisions. India’s increased purchase of Russian crude—from 2.5% to nearly 36% of its imports since 2022—reflects not only discounted pricing but also a calculated geopolitical balance between Washington and Moscow.

While US tariffs and sanctions are influencing India’s refining sector, domestic firms like Reliance are adjusting export strategies without jeopardizing energy security. The summit agreements expected during this visit, covering defence, shipping, and healthcare, indicate a broader, long-term partnership, including potential acquisition of S-400 systems and Su-57 fighters. These developments underscore India’s careful navigation between competing global powers.

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• Putin challenges US pressure on India over Russian oil during state visit