In just 24 hours, Putin again hails India as 'friend' while Russia challenges west-led order | Watch

Russian President Vladimir Putin has once again praised India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling New Delhi a sovereign power that never follows dictates from abroad. Speaking at SPIEF 2026, Putin grouped India alongside China as nations whose independent decision-making cannot be challenged. The remarks come amid growing Western pressure over Russia ties and global realignments. Putin also highlighted Russia’s deepening economic engagement with India, including massive investments in energy, ports and refining infrastructure. Is Moscow now betting that India and the Global South will shape the next phase of the world order?