Is Putin signaling a new phase in India-Russia relations?

Highlights:

Russian president Vladimir Putin, in an exclusive interview with India Today, inside the Kremlin's Ekaterina Hall that Indian prime minister Narendra Modi is 'not one to give in to pressure.' Responding to a question on whether the US is pressuring India through tariffs, Putin said the world recognizes India's firm and consistent stance under Modi's leadership.

He highlighted that India can take pride in its achievements and strongly dismissed the notion that external powers can arm-twist India. Putin also noted that over 90 per cent of Russia-India bilateral transactions have been executed successfully, reflecting robust diplomatic and economic ties.

Warm personal ties: Putin and Modi's SCO car ride

Putin recalled his widely discussed car ride with Modi during the SCO Summit in China. He revealed that the gesture was spontaneous and entirely his idea, emphasizing that it symbolized their personal friendship.

The two leaders discussed summit issues during the short drive and continued their conversation even afterward. Modi later posted about the ride on X, calling his conversation with Putin 'insightful.'

Strategic cooperation and upcoming agreements

Speaking ahead of his two-day visit to India, Putin hinted at several upcoming agreements across major strategic sectors. He praised India's 7.7 per cent economic growth and attributed much of it to Modi's leadership.

Withholding specifics, he confirmed that Russia and India are deepening cooperation in nuclear energy, space exploration, aircraft manufacturing, shipbuilding, and potentially Artificial Intelligence. He emphasized that both nations will focus on areas most significant to future global development.