Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday (June 5, 2026) that any attempt to put pressure on India through sanctions under the leadership of Narendra Modi will ultimately backfire. He said that India is a sovereign country and it has every right to choose its defense and economic partners.

During a conversation at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin said that India always takes decisions keeping in mind its national interests. According to him, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India has adopted an independent policy and will continue on the same path despite external pressure. He said that any attempt to impose sanctions or pressure on India will not be successful but will have the opposite effect.

VIDEO | Saint Petersburg: India has never followed any diktats from abroad, says Russian President Vladimir Putin.

(Source: Third Party)

(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/nhjWezZyXT

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 6, 2026

Also read: India’s dominance in the world, China a big player, Putin warned Trump – If oil prices rise, US’s dominance will end…

Putin’s statement on Sukhoi SU-57 fighter aircraft

Putin said that Russia had earlier proposed to jointly develop the Sukhoi SU-57 fighter aircraft with India. However, this partnership could not progress, after which Russia developed this aircraft on its own. He said that Su-57 is one of the most modern fighter aircraft in the world and Russia is ready to sell it to India. He said that this aircraft can play many roles and its technology is very advanced. According to him, it is not just a fighter plane but can be used in many types of military operations.

What did Putin say on the defense relations between India and Russia?

Talking about the defense relations between India and Russia, Putin said that the relationship between the two countries is not limited to just buying and selling. He said that both the countries also work together on joint research and technological development and this is the biggest strength of this partnership. Giving an example, he mentioned the BrahMos missile project. Putin said that Indian and Russian experts worked together from the beginning in the development of this missile and the result was very successful. According to him, this is an important example of defense cooperation between India and Russia.

India is an independent country – Putin

When Putin was asked whether India might have to face sanctions from the US if it buys defense systems like Su-57 or S-500 from Russia, Putin said that India is an independent country and it is free to choose the most suitable defense equipment according to its interests. He said that India has always given priority to its national interests and will do the same in future also. Putin also said that he remembers the time when Narendra Modi was not given a US visa before becoming Prime Minister. He said that today the situation has completely changed and relations between India and America are getting stronger. According to him, this shows India’s changing global role and its ability to move forward according to circumstances.

Also read: Question on ‘intolerance’ heated up atmosphere in Chief Justice’s London program, Cockroach Janata Party shared video

India eu fta: In addition to 25 percent tariff on India from the US, an additional tariff of 25 percent has been imposed as a panalty due to the purchase of crude oil from Russia. Due to this, the total rates have been 50 percent. The high tariff imposed on India has tightened the competition for Indian exporters in the American market. That is, it is becoming difficult for India to remain in front of Vietnam or Bangladesh and Pakistan exporters.

India-EU Free Trade Agreement

Meanwhile, efforts are being intensified between India and European Union for ambitious free trade agreement and two important meetings have been scheduled next month to remove all pending differences. According to officials, a delegation of European officials is coming to New Delhi this week. Where they can discuss issues with differences such as market access, customs duty on agricultural products and especially alcohol and dairy.

This step is being taken at a time when India is under pressure from American high tariff. And the White House is constantly putting pressure on the European Union to impose additional customs on India due to buying oil from Russia.

New Delhi’s eye on the new market

Actually, both sides are trying to do the conversation by the end of this year. Because due to the influence of Trump Tariff, New Delhi is looking for a new market. India’s European Union is a large trading partner and bilateral trade between the two countries has touched a figure of about 135 billion in 2023-24.

It is believed that the European Union will present its new vision on 17 September regarding India. And it can be formally announced at the conference to be held early next month.

ALSO READ: Gold Pries: Gold prices fell just before the festive season, know the fresh price of 8 September 2025 today