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Amid a clear signal to the West, Leader Vladimir Putin informed PM Narendra Modi that Russia remains committed to guarantee “uninterrupted” supplies of oil to India. This declaration came as the two leaders met in the Indian capital and affirmed their bilateral ties were “immune to foreign coercion.”

A Statement For the West

Putin's comments, issued after the annual summit, was widely seen to be a pointed rebuke at Washington, which have repeatedly attempted to pressure New Delhi into curtailing its historical links with Moscow. The context comes after earlier Washington's moves, such as the introduction of import duties against Indian goods due to its buying of Russian oil.

“Moscow remains a trustworthy supplier of fuel and anything necessary for the development of India’s industry,” Putin said. “Moscow stands willing to continue securing the uninterrupted delivery of resources for the fast-expanding Indian economy.”

The Indian leader, without referencing crude directly, reinforced the theme by noting that “energy security has been a key and crucial cornerstone of the bilateral alliance.”

Questioning Washington's Stance

Prior to the talks, in a television interview, Putin had criticized US interference over India's dealings with Russia. He argued, “When Washington can claim the privilege to buy our atomic materials, why shouldn’t India enjoy the identical right?”

Putin's arrival was his initial journey to India since the start of the situation in Ukraine, and Moscow and Delhi undertook a clear show to project that the friendship between the heads of state was undisturbed.

An Unusual Welcome

In a rare step, Modi welcomed directly Putin right off the plane. They shared a warm hug like longtime companions before enjoying a one-on-one meal together.

The Indian prime minister referred to India's relationship with Russia as “a lodestar” and noted it was “founded on mutual respect and strong faith.”

Reaffirming Strategic Ties

Friday's talks resulted in several important deals regarding defence and trade relations. A major outcome was the signing of an strategic roadmap aimed at 2030, which sets a goal to increase twofold bilateral trade to $100bn per year by the end of the decade.

Additionally vowed to restructure their defence ties. While Russia remains India's largest supplier of defence equipment, its share has reduced in recent years as India aims to broaden its supply base.

The joint statement emphasized an agreement on the co-development of advanced military systems, although specific details of purchases such as the Su-57 fighter jet were omitted.

Ultimately, both nations affirmed that during the “ongoing challenging, strained, and uncertain global landscape, their relationship stay strong to outside forces.”