Speaking at the BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi, Vladimir Putin accused Western countries of using sanctions, transport restrictions and other measures to restore their former global influence.
Web Desk: Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Western countries on Friday of trying to regain their former global leadership “by any means necessary,” including what he described as increasingly aggressive and unfair economic practices.
Putin made the remarks while addressing a panel at the BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi, where he is attending events ahead of the 18th BRICS summit.
Putin Criticises Western Economic Measures
Putin said global competition could sometimes take what he described as “unsavory” forms, including actions carried out at the state level.
According to Putin, Western competitors are attempting to restore their previous position of global leadership through measures beyond conventional economic competition.
He cited alleged attacks on industrial and logistical facilities and pipelines, as well as attempts to restrict international transport corridors and seize maritime vessels.
Putin also criticised what he called illegal restrictions and threats of secondary sanctions against countries that refuse to follow policies promoted by other states.
Russia’s Sanctions Dispute With the West
The Russian president also highlighted the extensive sanctions imposed on Moscow following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Putin claimed that more than 30,000 sanctions have been imposed on Russia, saying the figure was almost twice the number imposed on all other countries combined. The figure was presented by Putin and was not independently verified in the report.
Western countries have imposed extensive sanctions on Russia over its war in Ukraine, targeting areas including energy, finance, technology and trade.
Putin said the pressure had instead encouraged Russia to strengthen its national sovereignty and expand relations with what he described as reliable partners.
BRICS Seeks Greater Global Influence
Putin’s comments came as leaders of the BRICS grouping prepare for the bloc’s annual summit in New Delhi.
Russia has increasingly presented BRICS as an important platform for cooperation among emerging economies and as part of a broader shift toward a more multipolar international system.
Putin said BRICS remains open to cooperation with other partners, while emphasising Russia’s growing ties with countries outside the Western alliance system.
His remarks also come as India and Russia seek to strengthen their longstanding strategic relationship.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Putin met in New Delhi on Friday, with discussions covering energy, defence and international conflicts. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
Putin Arrives Ahead of BRICS Summit
Putin arrived in India on Friday for a three-day visit. He is scheduled to attend the 18th BRICS summit, which is due to take place on Saturday and Sunday.
The summit comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, including the war in Ukraine, the conflict involving Iran and disruptions to global trade and energy routes.
Putin’s comments are likely to reinforce Moscow’s broader argument that the international system is undergoing a major shift away from traditional Western dominance.
Global Competition Intensifies
The Russian president’s remarks reflect a wider geopolitical debate over the future balance of economic and political power.
Western governments maintain that sanctions and related restrictions are tools used to respond to Russia’s actions and protect international security. Putin, however, has repeatedly described Western sanctions as an attempt to contain Russia and weaken its global position.
Meanwhile, BRICS members have sought to expand economic cooperation, increase trade in local currencies and strengthen the role of emerging economies in global institutions.
The New Delhi summit is therefore taking place against the backdrop of an increasingly contested international economic and political order.
