Putin Highlights 20% Rise In Russia-US Trade Under Trump; Offers Broader Cooperation

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday highlighted that bilateral trade between Russia and the United States has increased by 20% since Donald Trump assumed office.

Speaking after talks with Trump during the Alaska Summit, Putin described the rise as ‘symbolic’ but emphasised that it reflected an improving trajectory in relations.

“When the new administration came to power, bilateral trade began to grow. It is still very symbolic. Nevertheless, our growth is 20 percent,” Putin remarked.

The Russian leader suggested that both countries still hold potential to expand economic ties, particularly in strategic sectors.

Putin underscored that Moscow and Washington have multiple avenues for joint work. He pointed towards trade, digital transformation, advanced technology, and space exploration as areas where both sides could collaborate further.

“We have many dimensions for joint work. Russia and the US can offer a lot to each other in trade, digital technology, high technology, and space exploration,” he said.

His statement comes amid shifting global alliances and trade disputes, with Russia attempting to reposition itself as a viable economic partner despite Western sanctions.

US Tariffs Target India Over Russian Oil

Putin’s comments also arrive at a time when Washington has intensified pressure on India over its purchase of Russian crude.

Earlier this month, President Trump doubled tariffs on Indian imports linked to Russian oil transactions, raising them to 50%. The new tariff rate will come into effect from 27 August.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs criticised the decision as ‘unfair’ and argued that other nations, including China, continue to import Russian energy without facing punitive measures.

New Delhi has repeatedly highlighted what it sees as discriminatory treatment, pointing to examples of countries that have continued purchasing Russian oil without repercussions.

India remains the only country directly penalised by the United States for energy imports from Russia.

Trump has so far offered no concessions or relief to India on the tariff issue. In contrast, Putin’s remarks underline the fact that US-Russia trade has grown during Trump’s tenure, complicating Washington’s messaging to its strategic partners.

Putin’s declaration signals Moscow’s intent to strengthen economic cooperation with the United States despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The Russian leader’s emphasis on innovation-driven areas such as technology and space may open new channels for dialogue, even as trade frictions with India cast a shadow on Washington’s policy consistency.

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