Russia Acknowledges US Pressure on India Over Oil Purchases: Putin's Upcoming Visit to Strengthen Bilateral Relations

New Delhi:

On Tuesday, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov addressed the issue of India facing high US tariffs for purchasing Russian oil. He acknowledged the challenges but stated that Moscow would not interfere in New Delhi's bilateral relations with Washington.

"We cannot interfere in the diplomatic relations between the US and India. We understand that there is pressure over India," Peskov remarked. He explained that this pressure now influences Russia's approach to its partnership with India.

Elaborating on Russia's stance, Peskov said, "This is the reason we have to be careful in creating an architecture of the relationship that must be free of any influence coming from any third country."

Peskov praised India's sovereign foreign policy decisions, stating, "We know that India is very sovereign in defining its national interests. We admire this characteristic of India," emphasizing Russia's appreciation for New Delhi's strategic autonomy in global affairs.

These comments come as both nations prepare for Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to India, where trade and strategic cooperation are expected to be key focus areas.

The Kremlin announced that the visit will allow both countries to review the "extensive agenda of Russian-Indian relations" across political, economic, scientific, and cultural domains.

This renewed momentum in bilateral relations occurs while Washington continues pressuring India to decrease imports of Russian crude oil. The United States has imposed significant tariffs on Indian goods and encouraged New Delhi to reduce purchases of Russian oil.

New US legislation under consideration could impose additional penalties on countries continuing to purchase Russian energy. Against this backdrop, the upcoming summit gains heightened importance as India works to protect its national interests while maintaining effective relations with both Russia and the United States.

Putin will visit India from December 4-5, 2025, for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation. He will meet with Modi and hold discussions with President Droupadi Murmu, marking his first trip to India in four years.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the visit will enable both sides to evaluate their partnership, establish future goals, and exchange perspectives on regional and global issues.

"The forthcoming state visit will provide an opportunity for the leadership of India and Russia to review progress in bilateral relations, set the vision for strengthening the 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest," the MEA stated officially.

Defence and energy are expected to dominate the summit discussions. India has expressed interest in acquiring additional S-400 air defence systems following their performance during Operation Sindoor.

At the ANI National Security Summit in New Delhi, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh noted, "Potentially S-400 is not ruled out, but don't expect any announcements during this. This meeting will focus on the broader elements of cooperation on defence between the two sides."

Regarding energy cooperation, Moscow has offered additional discounts on crude shipments as India reduced purchases due to US sanctions. Both countries will also discuss the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which has been a consistent topic in recent diplomatic engagements.

India has consistently advocated for peace and a swift end to hostilities. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently posted on X, "Reiterated India's support for an early end to this conflict and the establishment of an enduring peace."

These discussions highlight India's longstanding partnership with Russia, its balanced diplomatic approach, and its commitment to safeguarding strategic interests amid competing global pressures.