Russian President Vladimir Putin has asserted that attempts to pressure India through sanctions or threats would ultimately backfire under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Speaking to heads of leading global news agencies on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin said India has consistently pursued policies guided by its own national interests.He stressed that New Delhi’s decisions are shaped by strategic priorities rather than external influence, highlighting India’s commitment to preserving its sovereignty and independent foreign policy.Putin further noted that the relationship between Russia and India extends well beyond trade and economic cooperation. He described the partnership as one built on decades of mutual trust and shared interests.Referring to ongoing defence ties, the Russian President pointed to the successful collaboration on the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile programme. He also revealed that Russia had offered India its fifth-generation Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighter aircraft and proposed joint production in India, along with cooperation in integrated air defence systems.Footer: Putin’s remarks reaffirm Russia’s support for India’s strategic independence while underlining the depth of the long-standing partnership between the two nations.
