Vladimir Putin stated that any effort to pressure India through sanctions would backfire quickly under the leadership of Narendra Modi. Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin emphasised that India operates as a sovereign nation and makes decisions based solely on its national interests.

Recalling his long-standing relationship with Modi, Putin referred to the period when the Indian leader was barred from entering the United States, saying Modi would not forget that experience. He noted that relations between India and the US have since improved significantly. Responding to questions about possible US sanctions if India purchases Russian defence equipment such as the Sukhoi Su-57 or the S-500, Putin said India has every right to choose military systems that best meet its needs in terms of technology and cost. He stressed that India consistently acts according to its own strategic priorities.

Putin further said Russia’s partnership with India is built on mutual trust and is not influenced by political circumstances. He highlighted the two countries’ cooperation in defence research and development, particularly the joint work on the BrahMos missile programme. Discussing the Su-57 fighter jet, Putin revealed that Russia had earlier proposed a joint development project with India, but eventually continued the programme independently when the collaboration did not materialise. Calling the aircraft one of the most advanced fighters in the world, he said Russia remains ready to supply it to India.

Russia has historically been India’s largest defence supplier, although delays and supply disruptions linked to the Ukraine conflict have encouraged New Delhi to diversify its defence purchases. At the same time, India is pushing ahead with its indigenous Advanced Multirole Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, which is expected to enter service after 2035. Until then, India is reportedly considering acquiring around 36 Su-57 fighter jets, subject to meeting operational requirements.