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Amid a clear message to Western nations, Leader Vladimir Putin informed PM Narendra Modi that Russia stands ready to maintain “continuous” deliveries of oil to India. The announcement came when Putin and Modi met in New Delhi and asserted their relationship were “immune to outside influence.”

A Message Aimed at the United States

This affirmation, issued after the annual summit, was widely seen to be targeted at western countries, that have sought to compel New Delhi into curtailing its close links with Moscow. The context is in response to recent American measures, including the imposition of tariffs targeting New Delhi because of its buying of Russian oil.

“Russia is a dependable supplier of energy resources and all necessary for the development of India’s industry,” he stated. “Moscow stands willing to continue ensuring the consistent flow of energy for the fast-expanding Indian economy.”

The Indian leader, though he did not naming energy explicitly, echoed the focus by saying that “a stable energy base has been a strong and vital cornerstone of the bilateral partnership.”

Defying American Pressure

Prior to the summit, via a TV appearance, Putin had challenged American pressure regarding India's oil imports. Putin stated, “If the US can claim the privilege to buy our uranium, then why can't India enjoy the identical right?”

The visit was his first trip to India after the onset of the conflict in Ukraine, and both sides engaged in a clear attempt to demonstrate that the personal rapport between the heads of state remained intact.

A Personal Welcome

Taking an unusual move, Modi welcomed directly Putin as he disembarked. The two exchanged a hearty embrace as old friends before holding a private dinner the night before the summit.

He referred to India's alliance with Russia as “a beacon” and added it was “founded on reciprocal esteem and deep trust.”

Reaffirming Bilateral Cooperation

Friday's talks resulted in several significant pacts regarding defence and trade relations. One significant result was the completion of an strategic roadmap that runs to 2030, which aims to double mutual trade to $100bn annually by the target year.

Additionally agreed to reshape their military partnership. Even as Russia remains India's largest source of defence equipment, its share has reduced lately as India works to widen its procurement.

The official release stressed an agreement on the joint production of advanced weapons platforms, though direct mention of deals for the Su-57 fighter jet were not made.

Ultimately, Russia and India restated that amid the “present intricate, difficult, and volatile global landscape, the Indo-Russian partnership continue to be resilient to outside forces.”