India Putin receives Modi for tea

Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin has received Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for tea at his residence in Novo-Ogaryevo near Moscow. According to the state agency Tass, the Russian president and the Indian head of government agreed to initially discuss various issues unofficially. They only wanted to speak officially on Tuesday.

Putin praised Modi's political commitment. "You have dedicated your whole life to the Indian people, the people feel that," Putin was quoted as saying by Tass. "You are right, I have only one goal - my people and my country," Modi replied.

According to the Kremlin, Russia's invasion of Ukraine will also be discussed during Modi's official visit. It will be interesting for Western observers, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in advance, referring to the fact that Modi stayed away from the peace summit initiated by Ukraine in Switzerland in June, much to Kiev's annoyance. It was unclear whether the serious Russian missile attack that damaged a children's hospital in Kiev would also be discussed.

India is trading ever more intensively with the raw materials superpower and is now a major buyer of Russian crude oil. Moscow's media had already reported in recent days that Modi's trip following his re-election was a special sign of appreciation for India's relations with Russia. Russia is an important energy supplier for India.

SDA