India, Russia have stood together shoulder-to-shoulder’ in challenging times: Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin share a car together to the venue of their bilateral meeting, in Tianjinm on Monday
| Photo Credit:
ANI
In the face of US objections over India’s purchase of Russian oil, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the two countries’ strong partnership, stressing the two have stood together “shoulder-to-shoulder” in the most challenging situations.
Russian President Vladimir Putin reciprocated Modi’s warmth during their meeting on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Tainjin on Monday, addressing him as his “dear friend”, and highlighted the special relation shared by the two countries for decades. Putin and Modi drove together in the former’s limousine to reach the venue of their bilateral talks. The two stayed in the car for almost an hour after reaching the venue, carrying out informal talks.
On his part, US President Donald Trump, in a social-media post early Monday morning, said the US’ trade with India was “totally a one-sided disaster” and New Delhi bought most of its oil and arms from Russia.
“It [trade with India] has been a totally one sided disaster! Also, India buys most of its oil and military products from Russia, very little from the US. They [India] have now offered to cut their Tariffs to nothing, but it’s getting late. They should have done so years ago. Just some simple facts for people to ponder!!!,” Trump wrote.
Modi said 140 crore Indians were eagerly waiting to welcome Putin for the 23rd India-Russia Summit in December this year.
“India and Russia have always stood shoulder-to-shoulder even in the most difficult situations. Our close cooperation is important not only for the people of both countries, but also for global peace, stability, and prosperity,” said Modi in his opening remarks at the bilateral meet.
“Russia and India have maintained special relations for decades, friendly and trusting. This is the foundation for the development of our relations in the future,” said Putin.
The Modi-Putin meeting took place less than a week after the US doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent, accusing it of fuelling Russia’s war against Ukraine by buying Russian oil.
Ukraine war
Modi clarified that India has been having regular discussions with Russia on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “We welcome all the recent efforts towards establishing peace. We hope that all parties shall proceed ahead constructively. A way must be found to end this conflict and establish lasting peace. This is the aspiration of entire humanity,” he said.
Published on September 1, 2025
