Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Moscow is prepared to supply India with uninterrupted fuel shipments, even as Delhi faces growing pressure from the United States to curb its imports of Russian oil. Standing beside Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi, Putin questioned why India should be penalized for purchasing Russian energy when the United States itself continues to rely on Russian nuclear fuel.
Tensions between India and the United States have intensified as President Donald Trump imposed a steep 50 percent tariff on most Indian goods. Washington argues that India’s ongoing purchases of Russian oil indirectly support Russia’s military operations in Ukraine, an accusation that Indian officials firmly reject.
India to Receive Uninterrupted Russian Fuel as Putin Strengthens Energy Cooperation
Putin’s visit comes at a time when the United States is engaging in a new round of negotiations with both Russia and Ukraine in an attempt to push for a peace agreement. During an interview with India Today, Putin said Russia is committed to pursuing a peaceful resolution to the conflict, but insisted that Ukraine must withdraw from the Donbas region or face Russia taking full control of the territory. He emphasized that the area would either be liberated by Russian forces or vacated by Ukrainian troops.
Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s long standing position that the country supports peace, not neutrality, in the Russia Ukraine conflict. He welcomed ongoing diplomatic efforts and stressed that strengthening the connectivity between India and Russia remains a central priority for Delhi.
Relations between India and the United States have reached a low point in recent months as both sides struggle to resolve the tariff dispute. Trump initially introduced a 25 percent tariff only to double it later as a direct response to India’s purchase of Russian oil. Delhi condemned the increase as unfair and unreasonable. Putin, responding to the matter, pointed out that the United States continues to buy Russian enriched uranium for its nuclear energy sector and argued that India should be afforded the same opportunities.
According to data cited by Bloomberg in September, Russia remains the largest supplier of nuclear reactor fuel to the United States. Although a law was passed earlier this year to restrict imports of Russian enriched uranium, American purchases still remain significant.
Putin Offers India Stable Russian Fuel Supply Amid Growing Energy Partnership
During the leaders’ joint briefing, Modi and Putin announced several new agreements covering trade, agriculture and civil nuclear energy. Modi introduced two new 30 day visa categories for Russian tourists and confirmed the opening of two additional Indian consulates in Russia. He also revealed that Russia Today, the Kremlin backed broadcaster, would begin operating in India.
While no major defense deals were unveiled, both leaders confirmed cooperation in shipbuilding, critical minerals and investments in nuclear energy. They also endorsed a long term economic roadmap valid until 2030, which will span sectors such as employment, shipping and healthcare. Putin expressed confidence that bilateral trade, currently around 60 billion dollars, could rise to 100 billion dollars in the near future.
India, one of the world’s largest oil consumers, has relied heavily on discounted Russian crude since 2022, though some Indian companies have recently begun reducing imports to comply with US sanctions. Putin also praised a major joint venture involving Russia’s support in constructing India’s largest nuclear power facility. The two leaders reiterated that their partnership is shifting toward joint research, development and production of advanced defense technology as Russia and its Brics partners continue promoting a more balanced global order.
Also Check:
- EU Moves to Freeze Russian Sovereign Assets Indefinitely as Tensions with Moscow Escalate
- Slovakia Chalk Revolution: How One Teenager’s Protest Sparked a Nationwide Movement
- Ukraine’s Zelenskyy calls for collective pressure after Russia hits cities again
- Russia Launches New Strikes on Ukraine Amid US Optimism in Negotiations
- Loganair Applies For New Licence To Operate Key Inter Island Route
Source: BBC
