'If US can buy our fuel, why can't India': Putin
What's the story
Russian President Vladimir Putin has questioned the United States's stance on buying Russian fuel while pressuring India not to do so. Speaking to Indian broadcaster India Today, Putin said, "The United States itself still buys nuclear fuel from us for its own nuclear power plants." "If the US has the right to buy our fuel, why shouldn't India have the same privilege? This question deserves thorough examination, and we stand ready to discuss it, including with President Trump," he said.
Trade
'Russian oil is running smoothly in India'
When asked if Indian oil purchases had fallen under pressure from the US, Putin said, "There is a certain decline in overall trade turnover during the first nine months of this year." "This is just a minor adjustment. Overall, our trade turnover stands almost at the same level as before." He added, "Trade in petroleum products and crude oil ... Russian oil, is running smoothly in India."
Trade expansion
Putin's visit aims to strengthen India-Russia trade ties
Putin's visit to India is aimed at boosting bilateral trade and diversifying trade items. The two countries are looking to increase their two-way trade to $100 billion by 2030. Currently, their commerce has risen from about $13 billion in 2021 to nearly $69 billion in 2024-25, mostly due to Indian energy imports. However, bilateral trade eased to $28.25 billion between April and August 2025 due to a decline in crude oil imports.
Export diversification
India seeks to diversify exports amid tariff challenges
India is also looking to diversify its exports in light of US tariffs. The country hopes to increase sales of automobiles, electronics goods, heavy machinery, industrial components and foodstuffs to Russia. Deputy Kremlin Chief of Staff Maxim Oreshkin said Russia wants to import more Indian goods to balance bilateral trade.
Diplomatic gesture
PM Modi welcomes Putin, highlights enduring friendship
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed President Putin at the airport in Delhi with a warm embrace on Thursday evening. The gesture underscored their strong ties as they headed for a private dinner together. PM Modi wrote on X, "Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin to India." He added that the India-Russia friendship is time-tested and has greatly benefited both nations.
Twitter Post
Leaders embrace at airport
#WATCH | Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in Delhi; Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives him at the airport
— ANI (@ANI) December 4, 2025
President Putin is on a two-day State visit to India. He will hold the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit with PM Narendra Modi in Delhi on December 5
(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/wFcL9of7Eg