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Russian President Vladimir Putin questioned why the United States pressures India over buying Russian oil while it continues purchasing Russian nuclear fuel for its own energy needs. His remarks came during a two-day state visit to New Delhi, where he received an unusually warm welcome from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who greeted him personally at the airport with an embrace.
Putin made the comments in an interview with India Today shortly after landing, saying both nations were working to expand and diversify their trade relationship beyond energy and defence. He pointed out that the U.S. continues trading billions of dollars’ worth of Russian commodities, including enriched uranium, despite its criticism of India.
“If the U.S. Buys Fuel From Us, Why Can’t India?”
Referring to the United States’ own imports, Putin said:
“The United States still buys nuclear fuel from us for its nuclear power plants. If the U.S. has the right to buy our fuel, why shouldn’t India have the same privilege?”
He added that Moscow is ready to discuss the matter with President Trump, who recently imposed punitive tariffs on Indian goods, claiming India’s purchase of discounted Russian crude indirectly finances the war in Ukraine.
Oil Trade “Running Smoothly” Despite Pressure
Although Indian crude imports from Russia are predicted to hit a three-year low due to tightened U.S. sanctions and higher tariffs, Putin dismissed concerns of a major downturn, describing the dip in trade as a “minor adjustment.”
He emphasized that petroleum trade remains steady and functional.
India has called the American tariffs unjustified, pointing out that Washington itself continues substantial trade with Moscow. The EU also imports Russian LNG and other commodities despite sanctions elsewhere.
Modi–Putin Warmth Highlights Strong Ties
Putin’s arrival saw Modi break diplomatic tradition by personally welcoming him on the tarmac, signaling the strength of India–Russia ties. The two leaders shared a private dinner and are expected to sign several agreements during their summit discussions.
Russia sent a high-level ministerial and business delegation for the visit, while India focused on expanding exports—particularly of automobiles, electronics, textiles, machinery, and food products—to correct the heavily energy-skewed trade imbalance.
Target: $100 Billion Trade by 2030
Bilateral trade surged from $13 billion in 2021 to nearly $69 billion in 2024–25, driven largely by India’s purchase of Russian oil. The current slowdown to $28.25 billion between April and August 2025 reflects reduced crude imports rather than a weakening relationship.
Both nations remain committed to raising trade volumes to $100 billion by 2030 and diversifying what they exchange to make the partnership more balanced and resilient.
