Russian President Vladimir Putin has praised India’s continued import of Russian crude oil despite US sanctions, calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “wise” leader who will not bow to American pressure.

Speaking at the International Valdai Discussion Forum in Sochi, Putin said that the Indian people will never allow themselves to be humiliated by anyone.

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“I know Prime Minister Modi; he will also not make any such decisions,” he said.

Putin emphasized that India’s decision to buy Russian oil is “purely an economic calculation” and that “there is no political aspect here.”

US President Donald Trump had imposed 50 percent tariffs on India, the highest among major American trade partners, over its oil purchases from Russia. Trump had also urged New Delhi to halt its energy

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