Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday cautioned the United States against pressuring India to halt imports of Russian oil, stressing that New Delhi would never allow itself to be humiliated.
Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Group in Sochi, Putin said, “Will India give up our energy resources? If so, it will incur certain losses. Estimates vary, some say around $9–10 billion. But if it does not refuse, sanctions will be imposed, and the loss will be the same. So why refuse if it also carries domestic political costs? The Indian people will never allow themselves to be humiliated by anyone. I know Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he will also not make such decisions.”
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The Russian leader argued that the losses India might face due to punitive US tariffs would be offset by crude imports from Russia, while also boosting India’s image as a sovereign power. He described Modi as a “balanced, wise and nationally oriented” leader.
Putin’s remarks came after US President Donald Trump called on Europe, India, and China to stop buying Russian oil to curb Moscow’s funding for its war in Ukraine.
Reiterating the depth of Indo-Russian ties, Putin noted that both nations enjoy a “special” relationship. “People in India do not forget this. About 15 years ago, we announced a privileged strategic partnership, and that is the best description. Prime Minister Modi is a very wise leader who thinks first about his country,” he said, as quoted by Russian media.
The Russian president also warned that cutting Russian energy supplies would deal a severe blow to the global economy, likely driving oil prices beyond $100 a barrel. He underlined the need to resolve trade and payment issues with New Delhi, suggesting that the matter could be addressed through Brics or other platforms.
On the Ukraine conflict, Putin accused Nato countries of openly fighting Russia. “Unfortunately, there are instructors in Ukraine, and they’re actually taking part in combat operations. A centre was created in Europe, and it essentially supports everything the Ukrainian armed forces do. It feeds information, transmits intelligence from space, supplies weapons and gives training,” he said.
He blamed Europe for prolonging the war while thanking Brics, Arab nations, and allies such as North Korea and Belarus for supporting peace efforts.
Putin’s address also touched on global issues, including Donald Trump’s Gaza plan, the supply of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, and volatility in energy markets.
