Putin Hails India As Reliable Partner, Criticises Western Interference In Ties
Putin praises India-Russia ties and criticises Western pressure on New Delhi.
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday described India as a “reliable partner” and strongly criticised Western countries for what he called “detrimental interference” in India-Russia relations. Speaking during an interaction with heads of major international news agencies, including PTI, Putin said external pressure on New Delhi to reduce engagement with Moscow was both ineffective and harmful to global stability.
Putin praised India’s economic growth and independent foreign policy, noting that the country continues to emerge as one of the world’s major economies. He expressed confidence that bilateral trade between India and Russia could reach the USD 100 billion mark in the coming years, reflecting what he described as a strong and expanding strategic partnership between the two nations.
The Russian President said that attempts by Western countries to influence India’s foreign policy choices have not produced any negative impact on India-Russia ties. He emphasised that India, as a sovereign and fast-growing democracy, will continue to make decisions based on its national interests, including maintaining relations with multiple global partners such as the United States and Russia.
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Referring to Western criticism of India’s energy and defence cooperation with Russia, Putin reiterated that pressure tactics are counterproductive. He stated that Russia respects India’s diplomatic independence and views New Delhi as a consistent and dependable partner in global affairs, particularly in areas of trade, energy, and strategic cooperation.
In addition to bilateral ties, Putin also commented on broader geopolitical issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He said Russia remains open to finding a resolution but stressed that Kyiv must be persuaded toward compromise. He also rejected the idea of European Union countries acting as mediators, suggesting they have already taken positions that limit their neutrality.
The Russian President further questioned the legitimacy of Ukraine’s leadership and reiterated that Russia is prepared to support any steps that could lead to de-escalation in global conflict zones, including West Asia. His remarks come amid continuing tensions between Russia and Western nations over the Ukraine war, sanctions, and shifting global alliances.
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