Russian President Vladimir Putin has once again highlighted the “special” nature of relations between Russia and India, praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and India’s independent approach in global affairs.
Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi on Thursday (October 2, 2025), Putin underlined that ties between the two countries have always been built on mutual respect and sensitivity.
What Vladimir Putin Said?
“We have never had any problems or interstate tensions with India. Never,” Putin said, stressing that both sides have always valued each other’s interests.
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He reminded that India remembers Russia’s support during its independence struggle. “In India, they remember this, they know it, and they value it. We appreciate that India has not forgotten it,” he declared.
Putin firmly rejected Western pressure on India to reduce energy imports from Russia, noting that giving up such supplies would hurt New Delhi economically and politically.
“Will India give up its energy resources? If so, it will incur certain losses. Estimates vary; some say it could be around $9-10 billion. But if it doesn’t refuse, sanctions will be imposed, and the loss will be the same. So why refuse if it also carries domestic political costs?” he asked.
Read More: Putin to visit India, meet PM Modi by 2025-end: Kremlin
India Will Not Bow Down
The Russian leader made it clear that India will not bow down to outside pressure.
“Of course, the people of a country like India, believe me, will closely monitor the decisions made by the political leadership and will never allow any humiliation in front of anyone. And then, I know Prime Minister Modi; he himself would never take any steps of this kind,” Putin said.
PM Modi Balanced, Wise Leader: Putin
Putin also praised Prime Minister Modi personally, calling him a “balanced, wise, and nationally oriented” leader. He said that India’s refusal to stop buying Russian crude despite US pressure was proof of its sovereign approach.
“Everyone in India knows this well,” Putin remarked. He stressed that the losses caused by punitive US tariffs would be balanced by the benefits of cheaper energy imports from Russia, while India would also gain prestige as a sovereign nation.
India-Russia Trade
Looking ahead, Putin said Russia was working to reduce the trade imbalance with India, which currently tilts heavily in Moscow’s favour due to large crude oil exports.
He suggested that Russia could increase imports of Indian products. “More agricultural products may be purchased from India. Certain steps can be undertaken from our side for medicinal products, pharmaceuticals,” Putin stated.
Putin also announced that he is expected to visit India in early December and has directed his government to prepare measures that could help smooth trade ties.
