Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that India-Russia collaboration is not directed against any country and it is solely aimed at safeguarding the national interests of the two nations.

In the context of India’s energy ties with Russia, Mr Putin said, certain “actors” dislike New Delhi’s growing role in international markets in view of its close relations with Moscow and these elements are aiming to constrain India’s influence for political reasons by imposing “artificial obstacles”. Referring to Western sanctions against Moscow, the Russian President said, his country’s energy cooperation with New Delhi largely remains unaffected. He was talking to a TV channel, ahead of his 2-day visit to India.

Rejecting Washington’s objection to India procuring crude oil from Russia, Mr Putin said, if the US has the right to buy Russian fuel, why shouldn’t India have the same privilege. The Russian President said that India cannot be treated the way it was several decades back. Mr Putin said, Prime Minister Modi is not someone who succumbs to pressure easily and the Indian people should be proud of their leader. Mr Putin said, Russia is not simply selling defence technology to India, but it is sharing it with New Delhi.