Russia will keep supplying crude oil to India without disruption, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, even as the Trump administration intensifies sanctions and tariff threats aimed at curbing Moscow’s revenue from the Ukraine war.
Putin is in India for his first visit since ordering the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. He landed in New Delhi on Thursday to a ceremonial welcome and later joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a private dinner before formal talks began.
At their summit on Friday, Putin said Russia remained committed to supporting India’s energy needs. “Russia is a reliable supplier of oil, gas, and coal,” he told Modi, adding that shipments would continue “uninterrupted” to meet the demands of India’s fast-growing economy.
Modi called Russia’s support “unwavering” and highlighted energy security as a central pillar of the partnership.
India has become one of Russia’s largest oil buyers since Europe cut its dependence on Russian crude in 2022. Moscow supplied nearly 36% of India’s crude in 2024, though New Delhi has recently reduced purchases as Washington accuses India of indirectly financing the war and pressures it through sanctions.
Putin said he briefed Modi on battlefield developments and on discussions involving “some partners, including the United States,” regarding a potential peace settlement. Modi reiterated India’s long-held position of advocating peace.
The leaders also unveiled a new economic cooperation roadmap extending to 2030, accompanied by agreements in jobs, health, shipping, and chemicals. Modi said the plan would make trade “balanced and sustainable.” Bilateral trade reached $68.7 billion in 2024–25, though India exported only $4.88 billion and is seeking better access to Russian markets.
Defense ties — once dominated by Russian supplies — are also shifting. Russia’s share of India’s weapons imports has fallen from 76% in 2009–13 to 36% in 2019–23 as India diversifies and boosts local production.
Putin will conclude his visit after a state banquet on Friday evening.