Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as his "balanced and wise" friend, while announcing plans for Russia to ramp up imports of agricultural and medicinal products from India to offset the trade imbalance and cushion New Delhi against potential losses from US tariffs on Russian oil.

Speaking at the plenary session of the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin emphasized the "special" and "privileged strategic partnership" between Russia and India, which is approaching its 15th anniversary. He described their relationship as "friendly and trusting," noting that he feels "comfortable" in interactions with Modi, whom he called a "nationally oriented" leader who prioritizes his country's interests.

Key Highlights from Putin's Remarks:

Addressing US Pressure on Oil Imports: Putin defended India's decision to continue purchasing discounted Russian crude oil despite warnings from the Trump administration, which has accused New Delhi of indirectly funding the Ukraine war. He dismissed any political motive behind the trade, calling it a "purely economic calculation." "If India refuses our energy supplies, it will suffer certain losses estimated at $9-10 billion," Putin stated, adding that the Indian people "will never allow any humiliation in front of anyone." He expressed confidence in Modi, saying, "I know Prime Minister Modi; he himself would never take any steps of this kind."Also Read: Kantara: Chapter 1 Roars at Box Office with ₹60 Crore India Nett on Day 1: what about All-India Nett Collection?

Offsetting Tariff Losses: In a show of solidarity, Putin asserted that any economic hits India might face from punitive US tariffs—such as those proposed by Donald Trump—would be "balanced by crude imports from Russia," while also enhancing India's prestige as a sovereign nation. This comes amid escalating US rhetoric, with Trump labeling India and China as "primary funders" of the conflict through their energy purchases from Moscow.

Boosting Bilateral Trade: To address the lopsided trade—where India imports far more energy from Russia than vice versa—Putin directed his government to explore increased purchases. "More agricultural products may be purchased from India. Certain steps can be undertaken from our side for medicinal products, pharmaceuticals," he said, highlighting untapped potential in financing, logistics, and payments to unlock further opportunities.YOHO Bubbles Men Ortho slippers | Soft comfortable and stylish flip flop slippers for Men in exciting colors |Lightweight | Anti Skid | Daily Use Chappal

Putin's comments underscore the deepening economic ties between the two nations, forged since the Soviet era and resilient amid global geopolitical strains. He reiterated that India-Russia cooperation stands "side by side even in difficult times," echoing Modi's own sentiments from their recent meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China last month, where the leaders shared a warm embrace and a ride in Putin's armored limousine. Ahead of Putin's planned visit to India in December, these remarks signal Moscow's commitment to a balanced partnership, potentially easing India's vulnerabilities in a tariff-laden global trade landscape while reinforcing Modi's image as a steadfast ally on the world stage.