Putin warns US against pressuring India on oil imports

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a strong warning to the United States regarding its attempts to pressure India into halting its purchases of Russian oil. Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Group in Sochi, Putin stated that India would never allow itself to be humiliated and emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would not take actions that could undermine India's interests.

Putin remarked, "The people of a country like India will closely monitor decisions made by the political leadership and will never allow any humiliation in front of anyone." He cautioned that if India were to stop importing Russian energy, it would face significant losses. His comments come in response to US President Donald Trump's recent imposition of a 50 percent tariff on India, which includes a punitive 25 percent levy on Russian oil imports.

The Russian leader highlighted the potential economic repercussions of cutting off Russian oil supplies, warning that global oil prices could soar above $100 per barrel, adversely affecting the global economy. He noted that the US's actions could backfire, leading to increased prices and sustained high interest rates in the US.

Putin also addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, accusing NATO countries of direct involvement in the war and expressing gratitude to BRICS and Arab nations for their peace efforts. He reiterated the need for Russia and India to resolve trade and payment issues, suggesting that this could be achieved through BRICS or other channels.

In a broader context, Putin criticized the US's plans to supply Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, stating that such a move would escalate tensions between Russia and the US. He warned that the introduction of these missiles would represent a significant escalation in the conflict.

Overall, Putin's remarks reflect a firm stance against US pressure and a commitment to maintaining strong ties with India amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.