Russian President Vladimir Putin has delivered a strong endorsement of India’s independent foreign policy, saying any attempts to pressure the country through sanctions would ultimately “boomerang” under the leadership of Narendra Modi.
Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin emphasized that India consistently acts as a sovereign nation guided by its own national interests rather than external pressure.
Putin Says India Acts as a Sovereign Nation
Highlighting India’s strategic autonomy, Putin said New Delhi has always made decisions based on what best serves its people and long-term interests.
According to the Russian President, India remains free to choose technologies, products, and partnerships that offer the best value and strategic benefit. He added that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, threats of sanctions would have little impact and could backfire on those attempting to impose them.
The remarks come amid continued global discussions over India’s energy imports from Russia and its independent diplomatic approach to international conflicts.
Strong Backing for India-Russia Strategic Partnership
Putin also underlined the depth of India-Russia relations, describing them as trust-based and resilient regardless of changing geopolitical conditions.
He noted that military and technological cooperation remains one of the strongest pillars of the bilateral partnership. A significant portion of India’s defence infrastructure continues to be based on Russian-origin platforms, reflecting decades of collaboration dating back to the Soviet era.
BrahMos Missile Project Highlighted
One of the key examples cited by Putin was the jointly developed BrahMos Missile programme.
He praised Indian and Russian scientists and engineers for working together on advanced missile technologies, describing the project as a symbol of successful joint research and development rather than a simple buyer-seller relationship.
Putin said the partnership demonstrates how both countries are investing in long-term innovation and defence capabilities.
India-US Relations Also Growing
Despite emphasizing Moscow’s close ties with New Delhi, Putin acknowledged that India’s relationship with the United States continues to grow.
He observed that India maintains constructive relations with multiple global powers while remaining focused on its own national priorities. According to Putin, this balanced approach reflects India’s increasing influence in global affairs.
Russia Reaffirms Commitment to India
Reiterating Russia’s commitment, Putin stated that Moscow would continue to honor its obligations to trusted partners like India.
He stressed that Russia’s cooperation with India is not determined by temporary political circumstances and remains rooted in mutual respect, strategic trust, and decades of collaboration across defence, technology, trade, and diplomacy.
The remarks are being viewed as a significant reaffirmation of the long-standing India-Russia partnership at a time of evolving global alliances and geopolitical uncertainty.
