Russian President Vladimir Putin used his India Today interview to underline that the India-Russia partnership is anchored in national interest, not in rivalry with any third country, even as Washington turns increasingly confrontational toward both capitals, India Today reported. 

Putin arrived in New Delhi on Thursday evening for a two-day summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Hours before their meeting, the Russian leader defended the trajectory of the relationship and pushed back at the United States' pressure. "Neither I nor Prime Minister Modi, despite certain external pressures we face, have ever approached our collaboration to work against someone," he said when asked about Washington's aggressive approach, according to India Today.