ST PETERSBURG: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday dismissed suggestions that Moscow is benefiting from rising energy prices caused by tensions involving Iran, saying Russia’s primary interest is bringing the conflict to an end as quickly as possible.
Speaking to reporters at the annual St Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin said Russia supports efforts to restore stability in the Middle East and welcomes recent ceasefire initiatives.
“Our interest is ending the conflict as soon as possible,” Putin said, rejecting claims that Russia stands to gain from disruptions in global energy markets.
Putin Praises Iran’s Resilience
Commenting on the ongoing crisis, Putin said the Iranian people had demonstrated unity and determination, adding that their interests must be considered in any future settlement.
“There is no doubt that the people of Iran have proven that their interests should be taken into account. They have shown cohesion and their will to fight,” he said.
Putin noted that Russia remains in close contact with Iranian officials and expressed hope that diplomatic efforts would lead to a positive outcome.
“We maintain contacts with our Iranian friends and we hope that this will end up in a positive result,” he said.
Russia Ready to Assist Peace Efforts
The Russian leader said Moscow remains willing to provide assistance if required and would welcome any development that helps bring the conflict to a close.
“If there is anything that Russia could do, we are always ready to provide assistance. If not, we would only welcome the end of the conflict along with everyone,” Putin said.
Energy Price Gains Are Temporary, Says Putin
Addressing speculation that Russia could benefit financially from higher oil and gas prices triggered by regional instability, Putin argued that any such advantage would be short-lived.
“These are mere speculations, saying that Russia is presumably the only stakeholder and beneficiary from the rising prices of energy resources,” he said.
According to Putin, while Russian energy companies may see temporary gains, Moscow is focused on maintaining stable long-term economic and diplomatic relationships rather than benefiting from short-term market fluctuations.
Welcomes Ceasefire Efforts
Putin also welcomed recent diplomatic developments aimed at reducing tensions in the region and stressed the importance of preserving the ceasefire.
“We welcome the fact that, despite certain difficulties, a ceasefire has been established,” he said.
Putin Calls India a Reliable Partner
During the interaction, Putin also spoke extensively about Russia’s relationship with India, describing New Delhi as one of Moscow’s most dependable international partners.
“We are developing our ties with India and will continue doing that, and we deem India to be a very reliable partner,” he said.
Western Pressure on India Unlikely to Work
Putin suggested that attempts by some Western countries to pressure India over its ties with Russia have failed to produce meaningful results.
“Everyone has understood that putting pressure on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India, which has the largest population in the world, is detrimental for international relations and for bilateral relations,” he said.
According to Putin, such pressure has not negatively affected India-Russia cooperation.
‘Special Privileged Strategic Partnership’
Highlighting decades of cooperation between the two countries, Putin described bilateral relations as a “special privileged strategic partnership.”
“We enjoy a special privileged strategic partnership. This is something we have been working on for decades,” he said.
The Russian president noted that the relationship has remained strong despite shifting global geopolitical dynamics and continues to expand across multiple sectors.
Putin Praises India’s Economic Rise
Putin also commended India’s economic progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing the country as one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies.
“India is one of the leading economies of the world that shows the highest rates of economic growth. This is a result of the hard work that the government has been doing under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi,” he said.
Trade Could Reach $100 Billion
Expressing confidence in future economic cooperation, Putin said trade between India and Russia is expected to continue growing and could eventually reach the $100 billion mark.
His remarks come amid ongoing tensions in West Asia, concerns over global energy supplies, and continued scrutiny from some Western nations regarding India’s economic and energy engagement with Russia.
