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Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that attempts to influence Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s policy decisions have a negative impact on both international diplomacy and bilateral cooperation. He made the remarks while addressing representatives of global news organisations at the Constantine Palace in St Petersburg.
Addressing questions about India’s growing engagement with the United States, Putin rejected the suggestion that closer ties between New Delhi and Washington could adversely affect Russia’s relationship with India.
Questioning the premise, Putin remarked, “Your question seemed a bit strange to me. You said that the cooperation between India and the US creates difficulties in the relations between Russia and India. I don’t think that this is the case.”
The Russian President added that Moscow welcomes India’s efforts to strengthen connections with countries across the globe. He described India as a major economic force, home to more than 1.5 billion people and recognised worldwide as a vibrant democracy.
Putin stressed that India’s development strategy should be determined by its own priorities and interests. He noted that India has every right to deepen cooperation with nations that align with its economic and strategic objectives.
Putin made the observations during his traditional annual session with international media representatives.
The event serves as a platform for discussions on global affairs, economic developments, and Russia’s foreign policy agenda.
The St Petersburg International Economic Forum is hosting the interaction from June 3 to June 6.
The remarks come several months after Putin’s State Visit to India in December 2025.
During the visit, President Putin and Prime Minister Modi reviewed cooperation in defence, trade, energy, and regional security. The leaders also assessed the progress of India-Russia relations as the two countries marked 25 years since the establishment of their Strategic Partnership framework.
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