Russian President Vladimir Putin has underlined that the growing strategic cooperation between India and Russia is not directed against any nation — including the United States. His remarks came during an interview with Aaj Tak and India Today at the Kremlin, just days before his scheduled visit to India.
Putin’s comments arrive at a time of heightened global scrutiny over India’s energy imports from Russia and Washington’s evolving tariff policies.
‘Our partnership is not against anyone’
Responding to questions on how India and Russia should navigate US President Donald Trump’s tariff-heavy economic approach, Putin said every leader acts based on advice from their own experts.
“He pursues his own policy… His decisions aren’t made out of thin air,” Putin said, while adding that Russia does not believe in using tariff barriers as a tool.
He stressed that Moscow’s trade policies remain open and aligned with global norms. “We have never engaged in such practices… and have no intention of doing so in the future.”
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When asked whether joint initiatives like Make in India, Make With Russia could trigger a negative response from the US, Putin reiterated that both he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi operate with a clear principle — cooperation should never be built “against someone.”
“We focus on our interests — India’s and Russia’s — without harming others. Leaders worldwide should appreciate this,” he added.
On Trump’s comments linking India’s Russian oil imports to the war
Donald Trump recently claimed that India buying oil from Russia was “funding the war,” prompting a pointed clarification from Putin.
Without making any personal assessment of the former US President, Putin noted that the US itself continues to procure nuclear fuel from Russia.
“The United States still buys nuclear fuel from us for its reactors. If the US has the right to buy our fuel, why shouldn’t India have the same privilege?” he said.
Putin added that the issue deserves a “thorough discussion,” signaling openness to dialogue even with Washington.
Strategic ties remain steady amid global pressure
India and Russia have continued to expand cooperation in defence, energy, and technology, even as geopolitical dynamics shift rapidly. New Delhi has maintained that its partnerships are guided by national interest and strategic autonomy.
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Putin’s latest remarks reinforce that message — positioning the India-Russia relationship as pragmatic, stable, and not part of any geopolitical bloc politics
