Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed that pressuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi is harmful to international relations and bilateral ties during a meeting with international news agencies in St. Petersburg. Putin dismissed the notion that India’s cooperation with the US creates difficulties in Russia-India relations, emphasizing India’s right to develop relations with all countries.
Putin highlighted that India, as a significant country with a large population and economy, has the autonomy to pursue its economic interests with any country it deems necessary. He criticized attempts by the US to pressure India in certain matters, stressing that pressuring a leader like PM Narendra Modi, given India’s status as the world’s most populous country, is detrimental to international and bilateral relations.
The annual meeting with international news agencies at the Constantine Palace in St. Petersburg allows discussions on global events, economic issues, and Russia’s foreign policy. The event coincides with the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, running from June 3 to 6, providing a platform for dialogue on various topics.
In a significant State Visit to India in December 2025, President Putin engaged in summit-level talks with PM Modi, focusing on defense, economic cooperation, energy ties, and regional security. The visit marked 25 years of the India-Russia ‘Strategic Partnership,’ reaffirming the strong ties between the two nations.
