Indian PM Modi hails ‘very good’ conversation with Putin on Ukraine
The call took place as the Indian leader faces difficult decisions over New Delhi’s purchases of Russian oil
The call took place as Modi, leader of the world’s most populous nation and its fifth-biggest economy, faces some difficult decisions over New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil.
US President Donald Trump has given long-standing ally India, one of the world’s largest crude oil importers, three weeks to find alternative suppliers or new import tariffs of 25 per cent will double to 50 per cent.
“Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine,” Modi posted on social media.
“I look forward to hosting President Putin in India later this year.”
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Buying Russian oil has saved India billions of dollars on import costs, keeping domestic fuel prices relatively stable, but that benefit is now at risk because of Trump’s tariffs.