During his address at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi on Thursday, October 2, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin touched upon various geopolitical and economic issues, including US-India relations, quoting American conservative Charlie Kirk and criticizing former President Donald Trump's tariff policies toward India. The Valdai Discussion Club is an international forum held annually in Russia, bringing together experts from around the world to discuss global issues.
Putin addressed the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk, calling it a sign of a "deep rift" in American society and offering condolences to Kirk's family.
On the topic of international trade and relations, Putin criticized the United States for pressuring India to reduce energy trade with Russia. He warned that imposing higher tariffs on Russia's trade partners, including India, could backfire on Washington by driving up global energy prices and forcing the US Federal Reserve to maintain high interest rates, which would slow down the US economy. He argued that India would not succumb to such pressure, stating, "India will never allow itself to be humiliated," and that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would not take such steps. Putin praised Modi as a "balanced, wise" and "nationally oriented" leader.
Putin highlighted the "special" relationship between Russia and India, emphasizing that the two countries have always considered each other's sensitivities. He noted that India remembers and values the support it received from the Soviet Union during its fight for independence. He also pointed out that India's decision to continue importing oil from Russia despite US pressure demonstrates its sovereignty.
Furthermore, Putin suggested measures to address the trade imbalance between Russia and India, including Russia purchasing more agricultural products and pharmaceuticals from India. He also mentioned that if India were to reject Russian energy supplies, it would face significant financial losses.
Putin also addressed broader global issues, stating that the world is entering a "polycentric era" where no single power can dictate terms. He criticized Europe for its increasing militarization and for what he called "hysteria" regarding a potential Russian attack on NATO. He dismissed these claims as "nonsense" and "impossible to believe". Putin also responded to Trump's characterization of Russia as a "paper tiger" by questioning NATO's strength. "If a paper tiger can beat all of the West…,” he sneered, implying the alliance is weak and overconfident.
In the context of the Russia-Ukraine war, Putin stated that Russia has the strategic initiative and that its losses are much lower than Ukraine's. He urged Kyiv to negotiate, while also accusing Europe of escalating the conflict. He welcomed mediation efforts by countries such as China, India, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey.
