Following a review of the news summary, US President Donald Trump stated, “We need to reach an agreement because I like Prime Minister Modi very much.” Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted that American pressure would not affect India and that the partnership between the two countries would remain strong. Putin is confirmed to attend the BRICS summit in New Delhi this September.
June 5, Kathmandu – The world’s two major powers, the United States and Russia, are competing to attract India toward their respective spheres. US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have openly praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signaling their intent to strengthen their national interests and partnerships with India.
US Interests: Friendship with Modi and a Trade Deal
Speaking with journalists at the White House, President Trump expressed optimism about an upcoming major trade agreement between the US and India. He described Prime Minister Modi as a “very good friend” and emphasized the strong relationship between the two nations. Trump lamented that in the past, India had benefited from high tariffs on American goods, while the US had not gained much. However, he claimed the scenario has now changed, and the US is earning significant revenue from trade with India. He added, “We have to reach a deal because I like Prime Minister Modi very much.”
While Trump’s praise continues, the US has simultaneously imposed additional tariffs on imports from 54 countries, including India. This move aims to prevent the importation of goods produced through forced labor.
Putin’s Assertion: India Will Not Be Swayed by US Pressure
On June 4, during a conversation with international journalists in Saint Petersburg, Russian President Putin openly praised India and Prime Minister Modi. He stated that despite American attempts to pressure India, the relationship with Russia would remain unaffected and India would resist external pressures. Putin described India as a “great country and democracy” and pledged that Russia regards India as a reliable partner.
He added that India prioritizes its national interests and that growing ties with the US would not weaken India-Russia relations. Putin also noted that Western countries’ efforts to reduce ties with Russia and pressure India over this would be detrimental for international relations. He commended Modi’s leadership and persistent policy implementation, crediting these factors for India becoming one of the fastest-growing economies worldwide. Putin expressed confidence that India-Russia trade will reach $100 billion in the future.
Upcoming Visits and India-Russia Agreements
India is currently chairing BRICS this year. Russian President Putin is scheduled to attend the BRICS summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13. Prime Minister Modi is also planning a visit to Russia later this year. Putin last visited India on December 4, 2015, to participate in the 23rd India-Russia annual summit. That was his first trip after the Ukraine conflict began and his second since 2021. Upon arrival in Delhi, Putin and Modi traveled together in the same Toyota SUV to the Prime Minister’s residence.
During the 2015 summit, several significant agreements were signed. Among them, Russia committed to providing India with a continuous and uninterrupted supply of fuel. Indian companies also agreed to collaborate with a Russian company to establish a urea plant in Russia. Additionally, formal agreements between India’s FSSAI and Russia’s Consumer Protection Agency were signed to strengthen food safety regulations. There were also multiple memoranda of understanding to enhance cooperation in medical research and healthcare services. Cooperation was agreed upon in port and shipping operations as well. Both countries reached internal understandings to facilitate the free movement of people and streamline immigration processes.
