Putin Warns Against Pressure on India, Says It Hurts Global Relations

Moscow- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that any attempt to pressure Prime Minister Narendra Modi or India is “detrimental to international relations and bilateral ties,” while underlining Russia’s support for India’s independent foreign policy choices.

Speaking during a meeting with representatives of international news agencies at the Constantine Palace in St. Petersburg, Putin responded to a question on India-US cooperation and its potential impact on Russia-India ties.

He dismissed the suggestion that closer India-US relations would create difficulties in Moscow’s ties with New Delhi. “I don’t think that this is the case. Why would you think that? We’re ready. We’re glad that India is developing its relations with all countries,” he said, describing India as a major global power with a large economy and population.

Putin added that it is natural for India to expand economic and strategic cooperation in line with its national interests. However, he cautioned that external pressure on India—particularly regarding its engagement with Russia—was counterproductive.

“Another thing is that the US are trying to put pressure on India in some matters… but everyone has understood that putting pressure on India’s PM Narendra Modi… is detrimental for international relations and bilateral relations,” he said.

The remarks came during the annual interaction with international media, held on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which runs from June 3 to 6. The forum typically serves as a platform for discussions on global politics, economics, and Russia’s foreign policy.

Putin also recently undertook a State Visit to India in December 2025, during which he held extensive talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on strengthening cooperation in defence, energy, trade, and regional security under the long-standing strategic partnership between the two countries.

WIth inputs from IANS