Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China, highlighting the strength of Russia-India relations despite mounting international pressure.

Putin praised the long-standing partnership between Moscow and New Delhi, stressing their shared interests in trade, energy, and security. The meeting underscored India’s continued balancing act between its strategic ties with Russia and its relationships with Western nations.

The talks come at a time when both leaders face growing scrutiny from the United States. President Donald Trump has accused India of fueling Russia’s deadly attacks on Ukraine by continuing to purchase Russian oil, despite Western sanctions.

India has defended its energy imports as vital to national interests, while also calling for peace and dialogue to resolve the war in Ukraine. The Modi-Putin meeting reflects New Delhi’s effort to maintain strategic autonomy as global power rivalries deepen.