Russian President Putin Backs Trade Plan Hails Modi’s Wisdom Amid India’s Trade Setbacks Trump-Era Tariffs

Russian President Vladimir Putin once again reaffirmed ties with India and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi amid ongoing trade tensions between India and the United States. Former President Donald Trump recently imposed a 50 percent tariff on India, with half of it linked to the country’s oil trade with Russia.

Putin argued that India faces a lose-lose situation, whether it gives up Russian energy or not. He said India could lose an estimated $9–10 billion if it ends oil trade with Russia, while continuing the trade could cause similar losses due to sanctions.

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Observers saw the move as a pressure tactic aimed at both India and Russia to halt the Kremlin’s ongoing military conflict with Ukraine. Amid ongoing trade negotiations between India and the United States, President Vladimir Putin expressed faith that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would not bow to tariff pressure.

At the international Valdai discussion forum in South Russia, Putin said, “So why should India refuse if domestic political costs are also involved? The Indian people will never tolerate humiliation from anyone. I know Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and he will not make such decisions.” He added, “India can offset its losses due to punitive US tariffs by importing crude from Russia, and it will also gain additional prestige as a sovereign nation.”

Putin also stressed the importance of India-Russia ties, saying, “I believe the people in India have not forgotten this and our relations. About 15 years ago, we announced a privileged strategic partnership, and I consider that the best description. I regard Prime Minister Modi as a very wise leader who puts the interests of his country first.”

Putin’s plans to remove trade imbalance

The Russian President not only highlighted cooperation with India but also mentioned measures to reduce the trade imbalance caused by New Delhi’s high crude imports. Putin stated, “We may purchase more agricultural products from India. We can also take certain steps on our side for medicinal products and pharmaceuticals.

“Although Putin spoke of expanding economic cooperation between Russia and India, he also pointed out some logistical issues that must be addressed to fully unlock these opportunities.”

The ties between India and Russia were once again emphasised by him, with their origins traced back to the Soviet era when India’s fight for independence was taking place. He said, “People in India remember, know, and value this. We appreciate that India has not forgotten it,” while further highlighting how easily each country addresses the concerns of the other.

Russian Putin-Modi camaraderie, and Trump

In his latest remarks, Putin called Prime Minister Modi a “balanced, wise,” and “nationally oriented” leader. The two leaders recently displayed bonhomie in China during a meeting on the sidelines of the SCO Summit. They shared a hug and a car ride, and both hailed the close cooperation between India and Russia.

In the days following this key meeting, Donald Trump softened his tone toward India, referring to Modi as a “great prime minister” with whom he would “always be friends.” Prime Minister Modi reciprocated the gesture, stating that he “deeply appreciates” Trump’s sentiments and positive assessment of India-US ties.

However, his tone took a sharper turn during his address at the United Nations General Assembly, where he accused China and India of being the main financial backers of the Ukraine war due to their continued purchases of Russian oil.

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