Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a detailed phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, reaffirming their commitment to strengthen the India-Russia Strategic Partnership. The discussion came at a critical juncture, as US President Donald Trump recently intensified pressure on India by imposing an additional 25 per cent tariff on Russian oil imports, raising total duties to 50 per cent—one of the highest levies imposed by Washington on any country. The new tariff will take effect on August 27, significantly impacting India’s energy trade with Russia.
During the call, President Putin briefed Prime Minister Modi on the latest developments in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Modi reiterated India’s consistent stand, advocating for a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the crisis. Both leaders reviewed the progress of their bilateral agenda, emphasizing the importance of mutual cooperation across sectors, including energy, defence, technology, and trade. Modi expressed optimism about hosting President Putin in India later this year for the 23rd Annual India-Russia Summit, underscoring the strong foundation of their strategic relationship.
Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine. We also reviewed the progress in our bilateral agenda, and reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 8, 2025
The conversation follows Modi’s recent engagement with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, whose nation is also facing US tariff hikes under Trump’s latest trade measures. India and Brazil agreed to boost collaboration in multiple areas, such as trade, agriculture, health, defence, energy, technology, and cultural exchanges, highlighting New Delhi’s proactive approach in strengthening global partnerships despite rising geopolitical challenges.
Trump’s decision to increase tariffs on Indian purchases of Russian oil marks a significant escalation in Washington’s trade policy. While the move aims to pressure countries engaging with Moscow, India has maintained that its energy cooperation with Russia is driven by national interest and the need to ensure affordable energy supplies for its growing economy.
The upcoming India-Russia summit is expected to reaffirm long-term commitments, deepen economic ties, and explore new areas of collaboration amid shifting global dynamics. Both leaders remain determined to navigate challenges while reinforcing their strategic partnership in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.