New Delhi

South Asia analyst Michael Kugelman on Saturday urged India to exercise caution in managing its energy relationship with Russia, even as Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent two-day state visit reaffirmed the strength of bilateral ties.

Speaking after the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, Kugelman said Putin’s remarks on oil were aimed at both Indian and Western audiences, especially amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. He noted that energy engagement will remain a delicate challenge for India as long as the war continues.

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Putin had emphasized Russia’s commitment as a reliable supplier of oil, gas, and coal to support India’s growing energy needs. Kugelman also described the joint summit statement as “expansive,” covering military, commercial, infrastructure, and energy cooperation, while stressing the importance of exploring other commercial avenues to reduce dependence on energy ties alone.