Article Today, New Delhi:
Ahead of his visit to India, Russian President Vladimir Putin has described India as a trusted and special partner, underlining the depth of bilateral ties between the two countries. In an exclusive interview to the India Today television network, Mr. Putin said that India is not merely a friendly nation to Russia but a strategic partner with whom relations are built on long-term trust and mutual respect.
Praise for Prime Minister Modi
Mr. Putin spoke highly of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, referring to him as a personal friend and a reliable leader. He said that Mr. Modi does not yield to external pressure easily and takes decisions based on national interest. According to the Russian President, Indians could feel proud of their leadership as the Prime Minister enjoys strong domestic confidence and international credibility.
India No Longer a Colony
Emphasising India’s growing global stature, Mr. Putin said the country is no longer a former colonial power but has emerged as a major world power. He added that India’s independent political and economic identity is now widely recognised across the international community. Therefore, according to him, India’s foreign policy decisions must be viewed in the context of its sovereign priorities.
On India and China Relations
Meanwhile, Mr. Putin clarified that both India and China remain close friends of Russia. He stated that Moscow does not intend to interfere in the bilateral issues between New Delhi and Beijing. According to him, both Asian powers enjoy independent and balanced relationships with Russia based on mutual benefit.
Defence of India’s Oil Purchases
Mr. Putin strongly defended India’s purchase of Russian crude oil amid pressure from Western nations, particularly the United States. He said India’s decision to buy Russian oil was legitimate and rooted in its national interest. He further criticised what he described as double standards by pointing out that the United States continues to import Russian uranium for its nuclear power plants. Therefore, he questioned why India should be criticised for its energy choices.
Remarks on Ukraine Leadership
On the Ukraine conflict, Mr. Putin made sharp comments on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He alleged that Mr. Zelensky, who had once spoken about peace, had changed his stance after coming to power. The Russian leader claimed that the Ukrainian government now follows radical nationalist influences. He went on to compare such ideology with neo-Nazism, a statement that is likely to attract international attention.
Allegations Against Western Media
In addition, Mr. Putin criticised Western media outlets for what he called sustained disinformation campaigns against Russia. He rejected claims that he seeks to revive the former Soviet Union. According to him, despite repeated clarifications from Moscow, Western media continues to project Russia through a Cold War lens.
On Science and Human Longevity
Speaking on scientific advancements, Mr. Putin said that while only nature remains eternal, human life expectancy can be significantly extended. He expressed confidence that average human lifespan could be doubled through scientific progress. He cited India’s improvement in public health indicators, noting that life expectancy in the country has risen from about 31 years at Independence to nearly 70 years in the present day.
