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.
Democratic Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate David Crowley speaks to supporters at a campaign rally on August 10, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Crowley is polling second behind front-runner Francesca Hong in the Democratic primary, which takes place tomorrow. Getty Images
Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong speaks to supporters during an election-night party on August 11, 2026 in Madison, Wisconsin. Recent polling had Hong with a substantial lead over her nearest Democratic rival David Crowley, but returns have shown a tight race throughout the evening with the two candidates trading slight leads.Getty Images
Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-WI) participates in a ceremonial swearing-in at the U.S. Capitol on May 19, 2020 in Washington, DC. Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-WI) and Rep. Mike Garcia (R-CA) were both officially sworn-in as new House members on Tuesday morning.Getty Images
