US President Donald Trump had warned that India would have to stop buying oil from Russia by this year. New Delhi has not spoken on this matter so far. However, on Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin, on the second day of his visit to India, delivered a clear message regarding oil and gas supply. He stated in clear terms that Russia's oil supply to India would continue. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was standing beside him at the time. He did not say anything about this. However, his smile said a lot, according to diplomatic analysts.
America has imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods for buying oil from Russia. The tension over this is at its peak. Trump had claimed that the Modi government had assured him that India would stop buying oil from Russia. He even claimed that Delhi has already reduced the amount of oil purchases from Russia.
Delhi has maintained complete silence regarding oil purchases from Russia. However, it has not issued any counter-statement to Trump's claims. But after the bilateral meeting with Modi at Hyderabad House, Putin said at the joint press conference, "Russia is a reliable supplier of oil, gas, coal, everything required for the development of India’s energy. We are ready to continue uninterrupted shipments of fuel for the fast-growing Indian economy."
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On this day, Putin also had lengthy discussions with Modi about anti-terrorism operations. Russia had stood by India after 26 people were killed in the militant attack in Pahelgam. It had clearly stated that terrorism must be eliminated by any means.
On this day too, Putin conveyed the message of joining hands with India in the fight against terrorism. He stated that India and Russia have been fighting hand in hand against terrorism for a long time. This fight will continue. Notably, Russia had also issued a statement supporting the Indian Army's "Operation Sindoor".
Putin also thanked Modi for yesterday's dinner. While praising PM Modi, the Russian President underlined that they have discussed about Various issues during their long conversation. He also mentioned having a discussion with Modi at the SCO Summit in Tianjin.
