Russian President Vladimir Putin offered India uninterrupted fuel supplies on Friday, while he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to expand India-Russia trade and defence cooperation. The two countries have shared decades-long ties in energy, defence, and economic sectors.
India, the world’s top buyer of Russian arms and seaborne oil, welcomed Putin during his two-day state visit to New Delhi. This is his first visit since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The visit highlights India’s continued strategic engagement with Moscow amid global sanctions.
Energy Cooperation Amid Global Pressure
Putin’s fuel supply offer received a cautious response from India. The country’s foreign secretary stated that energy companies make decisions based on market dynamics and commercial factors. Indian refiners, including Indian Oil Corporation and Bharat Petroleum, placed orders for Russian oil from non-sanctioned suppliers due to favorable pricing.
India is also negotiating with the US to reduce punitive tariffs imposed under former President Donald Trump on Indian goods related to Russian oil purchases. As a result, India’s energy imports are expected to fall to a three-year low this month.
Expanding Trade and Defence Links
Russia has expressed interest in importing more Indian goods, aiming to increase India-Russia trade to $100 billion by 2030. Modi described the bilateral partnership as a “guiding star” and highlighted a new economic cooperation program until 2030 to diversify and strengthen trade and investment.
During the visit, the two nations signed agreements to help Indian workers move to Russia, establish a joint venture fertiliser plant, and boost collaboration in agriculture, healthcare, and shipping. Defence cooperation will also expand through joint research, development, and local production of advanced military equipment and spare parts.
Diplomatic Context
Putin questioned US pressure on India to reduce Russian fuel imports, asking why India should not have the same rights as the US. India reiterated support for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict while maintaining strong strategic and economic ties with Russia.
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The visit underscores the resilience of India-Russia trade and strategic partnerships amid ongoing global geopolitical challenges.
