New Delhi: Global interest has centred on New Delhi as Vladimir Putin has arrived to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discuss expanding trade and strategic ties.
This marks Putin’s first visit to India in four years and comes as the two countries navigate complex relationships with Western nations, particularly the United States. India is currently engaged in discussions with Washington to resolve long-standing tariff disputes linked to New Delhi’s purchases of Russian oil.
Russia has remained India’s biggest defence supplier for decades and has signalled its intention to increase imports of Indian goods in order to expand bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030.
At present, trade remains heavily tilted towards Moscow due to India’s large-scale energy imports, particularly discounted crude purchased after European countries reduced reliance on Russian supplies following the invasion of Ukraine almost four years ago.
Analysts have noted that India’s position has become increasingly delicate. Michael Kugelman, senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, stated that New Delhi risks straining relations with either Moscow or Washington depending on how it balances its ties. The meeting between Modi and Putin has therefore been seen as a test of India’s ability to maintain strategic autonomy while managing competing global expectations.
Talks between the leaders are expected to cover labour cooperation, civil nuclear energy and other long-term strategic areas. The Indian government has indicated that new agreements may be announced to demonstrate the resilience of the bilateral partnership.
Defence remained a central theme on the first day of the visit, with Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov holding talks with his Indian counterpart, Rajnath Singh. India’s defence ministry said that Belousov stated that Russia is ready to support India’s ambitions for self-reliance in defence production.
Putin’s arrival in India has included a warm reception, with Modi greeting him with a handshake and hug on the red carpet before hosting a private dinner at his residence. A large Russian delegation, featuring business and government officials, has accompanied the president, underscoring the importance Moscow places on expanding economic and political ties with India.
Putin travelled to India after meeting envoys of former US President Donald Trump to discuss potential steps toward resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, the talks did not result in an agreement. India has continued to call for peace through dialogue and diplomacy while avoiding direct criticism of Moscow, despite pressure from Western nations that continue selective trade with Russia when it serves their interests.
As the putin visit progresses, both sides are expected to use the summit to highlight the durability of their partnership and outline pathways for deeper economic, defence and technological cooperation in the coming years.
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