New Delhi, India.

Russian President Vladimir Putin promised to continue "uninterrupted shipments" of fuel to India during a summit meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, a commitment that comes as New Delhi faces intense pressure from the US over its discounted purchases of Russian oil.

The visit, Mr Putin's first to India since the war in Ukraine began, emphasised the strategic depth of the India-Russia partnership, which spans energy, defence, and trade, even as Washington seeks to limit Moscow's export revenues.

Energy Commitment Amid US Tensions

President Putin, who received a ceremonial welcome, presented Russia as a steadfast and dependable energy supplier.

"Russia is a reliable supplier of oil, gas, coal, and everything else needed to develop India's energy," Mr Putin told his counterpart. "We are prepared to continue uninterrupted fuel shipments for the rapidly expanding Indian economy."

Following the sharp drop in purchases by European nations following the outbreak of the Ukraine war, India emerged as a critical market for Russian crude. In 2024, Russia supplied nearly 36% of India's total crude imports, or roughly 1.8 million barrels per day.

The summit takes place amid diplomatic tensions, with US President Donald Trump imposing punishing 50% tariffs on most Indian products in August, citing India's continued purchase of Russian oil.

While Prime Minister Modi thanked the Russian president for his "unwavering commitment to India" and acknowledged the partnership's emphasis on "energy security", he made no specific mention of oil imports.

Diplomatic Tightrope

Analysts believe India is walking a delicate diplomatic tightrope, relying on strategic Russian oil and arms imports while attempting to manage relations with Washington, which is using trade negotiations and tariffs.

"Balancing acts are second nature to Indian foreign policy making," wrote Pankaj Saran, a former Indian ambassador to Russia, in the Times of India.

In addition to oil, Mr Putin said he informed Mr Modi about the situation in Ukraine, including Moscow's efforts to reach a "possible peaceful settlement". Mr Modi, for his part, stated that "India has always advocated for peace in relation to Ukraine."

Economic and defence cooperation

The leaders oversaw the signing of numerous agreements in a variety of sectors, including jobs, health, shipping, and chemicals.

2030 Economic Plan: The leaders agreed on an ambitious "economic cooperation programme until 2030" to ensure that trade and investment are "diversified, balanced, and sustainable." Bilateral trade totalled $68.7 billion in the fiscal year 2024-25.

Defence Ties: Russia has long been India's main arms supplier. Despite New Delhi's efforts to diversify suppliers and increase domestic production, defence hardware, such as air defence systems, fighter jets, and nuclear submarines, remains a key topic of discussion.

The visit, which ended on Friday with a state banquet, sends a strong signal that the two countries are committed to deepening their strategic ties despite global geopolitical headwinds.