Russian President Putin stated that if the US is buying fuel from Russia, why shouldn't India have the same right. He assured that India-Russia oil trade and economic cooperation would be kept b.
Putin India Visit: During Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India, he challenged US tariffs and pressure. Putin stated that if the US can buy fuel from Russia, why shouldn't India have the same right. He emphasized increasing trade between the two countries and promoting the sale of Russian oil. Putin also mentioned that the trade of Russian oil in India is proceeding perfectly smoothly and without any problems.
Putin is currently on a two-day visit to India. Upon his arrival in Delhi on Thursday, he was welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Kremlin also praised this warm reception. Putin's visit comes at a time when some tension is being observed in the relationship between the US and India. The US has imposed a 50 percent tariff on India, and Putin reacted directly to this tariff issue.
Putin's Statement on Fuel Purchases from the US
President Putin stated in an interview with India Today that the US itself still buys nuclear fuel from Russia for its nuclear power plants. He questioned why, if the US has the right to buy Russian fuel, India should not have the same right. Putin said that this issue needs to be thoroughly investigated and requires dialogue, which could include discussions with US President Donald Trump.
Putin emphasized that oil and energy trade between India and Russia is proceeding perfectly well. He stated that there has been a slight decline in trade in the first nine months of this year, but it is only a minor adjustment. Overall, the trade turnover remains almost as stable as before.
Efforts to Boost India-Russia Trade
Putin's visit aims to further strengthen trade relations between India and Russia. Both countries are endeavoring to promote mutual trade and enhance cooperation in various sectors. This marks Putin's first visit to India since the Ukraine war.
The objective of this visit is to increase the sale of Russian oil, missile systems, and fighter jets. Additionally, it aims to strengthen other business links beyond energy and defense equipment. Putin stated that trade opportunities exist for both India and Russia, and cooperation can be expanded into sectors other than oil.
Energy Cooperation Continues Despite Western Pressure
Putin stated that the trade of Russian oil in India is proceeding completely fine. He also noted that despite pressure from Western countries and US tariffs, India has continued to purchase Russian oil. However, India's crude oil imports could reach a three-year low this month. The US administration claims that India's purchase of cheap Russian oil could help Moscow finance the Ukraine war.
Putin clarified that this is merely part of a trade adjustment, and energy and oil trade between the two countries is moving in the right direction. He stated that the Russia-India trade in petroleum products and crude oil is functioning properly and without any issues.
Emphasis on India's Strategic Autonomy
Putin asserted that US pressure cannot impede India's energy and trade independence. He reiterated that both Russia and India are committed to promoting their economic and strategic ties. Putin stated that continuing trade and energy cooperation with India is a priority for him.
