Russia Won't Interfere in India-US Issues Over Oil: Kremlin
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated Russia will not interfere in India-US issues concerning Indian purchases of Russian oil, despite acknowledging US pressure on New Delhi. He praised India's sovereign foreign policy. The announcement precedes Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India in December 2025, where trade, defence, and energy cooperation will be central. The summit aims to strengthen their strategic partnership amidst US sanctions and India's efforts to balance global relations.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced Russia's non-intervention in bilateral issues between India and the United States regarding India's procurement of Russian oil. Peskov acknowledged the US pressure on New Delhi but lauded India's sovereign approach to its national interests, stating Moscow seeks to build a relationship free from third-country influence. These remarks precede Russian President Vladimir Putin's state visit to India on December 4-5, 2025, for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. The visit, Putin's first to India in four years, will see him meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu.The summit's extensive agenda will encompass political, economic, scientific, and cultural cooperation. Defence discussions are expected to feature prominently, particularly India's interest in additional S-400 air defence systems, although immediate announcements are not anticipated. Energy cooperation will also be a key theme, with Russia offering further discounts on crude shipments as India navigates US sanctions. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict will also be addressed, with India reiterating its call for an early resolution and enduring peace. This summit underscores India's strategic autonomy and its efforts to maintain robust partnerships with both Russia and the US while safeguarding its national interests amidst complex global dynamics, reinforcing their 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership'.
