Putin vows continued fuel supply to India amid U.S. pressure over russian oil imports
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday pledged uninterrupted fuel shipments to India despite mounting pressure from the United States for New Delhi to halt purchases of Russian crude. The commitment comes as India faces steep U.S. tariffs linked to its continued energy dealings with Moscow.
U.S. President Donald Trump in August imposed a 50 percent tariff on most Indian products, arguing that India’s crude imports from Russia were helping fund the ongoing war in Ukraine. Washington has urged India to reduce or completely end its energy ties with Moscow.
During a bilateral summit in New Delhi focused on defence, trade, and energy cooperation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked Putin for his “unwavering commitment towards India,” calling energy security a major pillar of the partnership.
Putin, speaking after closed-door talks, said Russia remained a dependable supplier.
“Russia is a reliable supplier of oil, gas, coal, and everything that is required for the development of India’s energy,” he said. “We are ready to continue uninterrupted shipments of fuel for the fast-growing Indian economy.”
Modi acknowledged the strong energy cooperation between both nations but did not directly address oil imports, instead highlighting nuclear energy collaboration.
India became one of Russia’s largest oil customers after the Ukraine conflict began, with Moscow supplying nearly 36 percent of India’s crude imports in 2024 roughly 1.8 million barrels per day at discounted rates. However, recent months have seen a decline in Russian crude inflow as New Delhi navigates diplomatic pressure from Washington.
Putin said he also briefed Modi on developments in Ukraine and ongoing discussions involving global stakeholders, including the United States, on potential peace efforts.
Modi reiterated India’s position, saying the country “has always advocated for peace in relation to Ukraine.”
Putin’s visit his first to India since the start of the war included a ceremonial welcome featuring a 21-gun salute and honour guard, underscoring the longstanding strategic ties between both nations.
