Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a strong rebuke to US President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, particularly those targeting India and China. Speaking at a high-profile gathering of Russia experts in Sochi, Putin declared that Washington’s attempts to pressure New Delhi into cutting energy ties with Moscow would not only fail but also damage the global economy.

He stated emphatically that “US tariffs against India will fail. Unlike Europe, India and China are countries that respect themselves.” The Russian leader criticised the idea of using economic threats and import duties as leverage, warning that such strategies would trigger global inflation, disrupt trade flows and force the US Federal Reserve to keep interest rates high—ultimately slowing down America’s own economic growth.

According to Putin, Trump’s tariff-based coercion is short-sighted and counterproductive, especially when aimed at rising powers like India, which is known for its independent foreign policy and strategic autonomy. He stressed that “India will never allow itself to be humiliated”, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would never submit to external pressure, particularly on matters concerning national interest and energy security.

Putin argued that halting Russian energy imports would hurt India more than it would hurt Russia, estimating that New Delhi could face losses between $9 billion and $10 billion if it were to comply with Western demands. He questioned the logic behind abandoning affordable Russian energy only to accept higher costs from alternative suppliers, saying: “Why decline to buy Russian energy and take on political risks?”

The Russian leader also pointed out that public opinion in India would turn against any attempt to reduce energy cooperation with Moscow, making such a move politically unpopular and “pointless from an economic standpoint.”

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Putin Highlights India as a Trusted Strategic Partner

In contrast to his criticism of US policies, Putin spoke warmly about India’s steadfast approach to diplomatic independence. He praised Prime Minister Modi for maintaining a balanced stance amid Western pressure and said Moscow values New Delhi as a reliable long-term partner.

In recent years, India has significantly increased its imports of discounted Russian crude oil, helping Russia reroute supplies amid Western sanctions following the Ukraine conflict. This has strengthened economic and energy cooperation between the two long-standing allies.

Putin Confirms Upcoming Visit to India

Adding to the significance of his remarks, Putin confirmed his upcoming visit to India in December 2025 for the annual India-Russia summit, where he will hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, “Yes, we have finalised the timeframe for the President’s visit to India. It will take place before the New Year.” He added that preparations are in full swing, highlighting the importance both nations place on the high-level engagement.

The visit will be Putin’s first trip to New Delhi since 2021, marking a crucial moment in India-Russia relations amid geopolitical realignments triggered by shifting Western alliances and global economic changes.

Conclusion

Putin’s strong defence of India and open criticism of Donald Trump’s tariff policies underline a widening strategic rift between Washington and Moscow, while simultaneously reinforcing the depth of Russia’s partnership with New Delhi.

By asserting that “India will never accept humiliation”, Putin has positioned Russia as a vocal supporter of India’s sovereignty in global trade and energy policy. As Trump continues to push aggressive tariff measures, the coming months will test how India balances relations with both Washington and Moscow—but Putin’s confidence suggests Russia is betting on India’s resilience and refusal to bow to pressure.

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