Russia Praises India's Sovereign Decision-Making Under PM Modi Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, has stated that he has a great deal of faith in India's capacity to make its own strategic decisions and that New Delhi's policies under Prime Minister Narendra Modi are unlikely to be affected by outside pressure or threats of sanctions.Putin emphasized India's long-standing dedication to defending its national interests and upholding an independent foreign policy during his speech at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF). He pointed out that India has continuously shown that it is capable of making choices based on what is best for the nation rather than caving in to political pressure from abroad.Putin asserts that India is still a sovereign state with the complete authority to choose its defense, technology, and economic allies free from foreign intervention. He underlined that India's leadership has consistently demonstrated its resolve to put the country's interests first. Defence Cooperation Between India and Russia Remains Strong The Russian President also underlined the enduring nature of defence relations between Moscow and New Delhi. He claimed that rather than being based on transient political conditions, the two nations' cooperation is based on mutual respect, trust, and long-term commitments.Putin disputed the notion that other countries could control Moscow's defense exports and emphasized that Russia will continue to uphold its agreements with India. He reiterated that military cooperation between the two countries remains an important pillar of their strategic partnership.The comments come amid continued global discussions regarding India's procurement of advanced Russian defence systems and military technologies. Despite growing geopolitical tensions, both nations have maintained regular defence cooperation and strategic engagement. Putin Highlights Su-57 Fighter Jet Capabilities Putin also discussed Russia's fifth-generation Su-57 fighter aircraft during the conversation, calling it one of the most cutting-edge combat aircraft on the market today. He disclosed that although Russia had earlier suggested a cooperative development initiative involving India, the project did not ultimately go as planned. Following the collapse of the joint initiative, Russia continued the development independently and successfully brought the aircraft into service. Putin stated that Moscow remains open to supplying the Su-57 to international partners, including India, should New Delhi decide such a platform aligns with its defence requirements. His remarks reinforced Russia's willingness to deepen military cooperation with India while respecting the country's sovereign right to evaluate and select the defence technologies it considers most suitable. Strategic Partnership Continues Despite Global Challenges Putin's statements reflect the broader strength of India-Russia relations, which have remained resilient despite changing global political dynamics. Both countries continue to collaborate across sectors including defence, energy, trade, technology, and infrastructure. As geopolitical competition intensifies worldwide, India has maintained a balanced diplomatic approach, engaging with multiple global powers while safeguarding its strategic autonomy. Putin's endorsement of India's independent decision-making underscores Moscow's recognition of New Delhi as a major global player capable of charting its own course on the international stage.....