Putin Lauds PM Modi, Says India Will Not Tolerate Humiliation Amid US Tariffs

Putin Praises PM Modi, Says India Will Not Bow to US Pressure Over Russian Oil.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has strongly criticized the United States for pressuring India to halt its imports of Russian crude, saying New Delhi would never allow itself to be humiliated. Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “balanced and wise leader” and highlighted the “special” nature of Russia-India relations.

Putin described India’s Russian oil imports as “purely an economic calculation,” noting that refusing supplies would result in losses estimated at $9–10 billion, while accepting them would invite US sanctions. “So why refuse if it also carries domestic political costs?” he asked, adding that the Indian public would monitor decisions closely and would not allow humiliation.

The remarks come two weeks after US President Donald Trump accused China and India of financing the Ukraine war by continuing to buy Russian oil, and imposed a 25% additional tariff on Indian exports, raising total tariffs to 50%. Putin said such punitive tariffs could raise global prices and force the US Federal Reserve to maintain higher interest rates.

Highlighting the long-standing ties between the two countries, Putin recalled India’s history with the Soviet Union and emphasized that Russia and India have “never had any problems or interstate tensions.” He referred to Modi as a friend, praising their interactions as trustworthy and constructive.

Addressing trade imbalances, Putin said Russia may increase purchases of Indian agricultural products and pharmaceuticals to strengthen economic ties. He also noted the upcoming 15th anniversary of the special strategic partnership between Russia and India, describing it as a “truly privileged” relationship with coordinated political actions.