Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming India reduced Russian oil imports after US tariff pressure, highlighting how trade leverage is shaping India–US relations.
The two-day meeting was co-chaired by Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit and Head of Delegation, Deputy Chief of Main Operations, Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Russia Lt Gen Dylevsky Igor Nikolayevich.
In a telephonic conversation, the two leaders reviewed the progress in bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.
The RD-93MA engine deal between Russia and Pakistan has raised concerns about its impact on India-Russia relations.
“To be honest, I am also looking forward to this trip to India in early December,” Putin said.
Key areas of dialogue included enhancing agricultural trade between the two countries, notably through the expansion of India’s exports of agricultural products.
Rejecting NATO chief Mark Rutte's claim on PM Modi-Putin phone call, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said no such discussion had ever taken place and urged NATO leadership to act with greater caution.
The contingent includes 57 Indian Army personnel, seven from the Indian Air Force, and one from the Indian Navy.
According to reports, Jaishankar will hold talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov on August 21.
Addressing Putin as a "friend", Modi said he had a productive phone call with the Russian President during which many issues, including the Ukraine war, were discussed. The PM also mentioned that he was looking forward to welcoming President Putin in India for a visit.
