Russian President Vladimir Putin said that India has never followed instructions or pressure from other countries. His remarks appeared to be directed at US President Donald Trump, at a time when the United States has been trying to push Delhi to reduce cooperation with Moscow. Speaking at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), Putin stressed that countries have the right to make their own decisions.
“Naturally, India, which has never followed any diktat from abroad, or the People’s Republic of China. Sovereignty and sovereign decision-making can never be contested,” Putin said.
Pressure on India over Russia ties
Putin’s comments come shortly after he said that efforts to pressure India over its relationship with Russia were “useless”. He described India as a reliable partner and said it would not give in to Western pressure.
India has for a long time followed an independent foreign policy. Last year, it faced pressure from the United States over its purchase of Russian oil. Washington said the oil trade was helping fund Russia’s war in Ukraine.
The US responded by raising tariffs on Indian goods to 50%, before later reducing them to 18% this year.
‘Plans to isolate Russia failed’
When asked whether Russia had been isolated economically, Putin said those efforts had not worked.
He said the attempt to isolate Russia began under the previous US administration and was later supported by European countries. However, he said the strategy failed. “There has never been any isolation,” the Russian leader said.
Trade and cooperation continue
Putin said that even during political tensions, Russia and Western countries have continued to cooperate in some areas, including energy projects and uranium exports to the United States. “Americans are pragmatic. Whenever it benefits them, cooperation continues,” Putin said.
He also claimed that some foreign companies that officially left Russian projects are still quietly involved, especially in energy work in Russia’s Far East.
Putin added that Russia continues to work with partners, neighbours and international organisations. “There is not much damage to us… We have never isolated ourselves from anyone,” he said.
First published on: Jun 06, 2026 07:24 AM IST
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