Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in New Delhi on Thursday for a two-day official visit, marking his first trip to India since the start of the Russia–Ukraine conflict. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a private dinner for the Russian leader shortly after his arrival, ahead of the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit.
Focus on Defence, Trade and Energy Cooperation
Putin’s visit is expected to strengthen strategic cooperation between the two nations, with key discussions centred on defence, bilateral trade, and energy partnerships. According to Kremlin officials, India and Russia will hold in-depth talks on “promising projects” linked to industrial collaboration, advanced technologies, transportation, peaceful space exploration, mining, healthcare, and labour migration programmes.
President Putin will also meet President Droupadi Murmu during the visit.
Yury Ushakov, aide to Putin, emphasised that the political dialogue between New Delhi and Moscow remains “regular and confidential,” underscoring the continued strategic relevance of the bilateral relationship.
Possible Discussions on Su-57 Fighter Jets
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that India and Russia may discuss the potential supply of Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets to the Indian Air Force. India is currently evaluating options for advanced fighter aircraft as part of its long-term defence modernisation plan.
Business Forum and Media Launch on the Agenda
Putin is set to participate in the Russia–India Business Forum, aimed at deepening commercial engagement. His itinerary also includes the launch of the RT TV network in India, highlighting expanding media and cultural cooperation.
Oil Trade and US Tariff Concerns
A Bloomberg report indicates that oil trade will remain a critical topic as India seeks to balance its reliance on affordable Russian crude with the need to navigate US tariffs and sanctions. The visit gains added significance following Washington’s recent decision to impose 50% tariffs on selected Indian imports.
Targeting $100 Billion in Bilateral Trade
Both sides are expected to explore ways to increase bilateral trade from $68 billion to $100 billion by 2030, including developing mechanisms for settlements in local currencies to protect trade flows from external sanctions.
Key Agreements Expected
India and Russia may sign several agreements during the summit, including:
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A framework to facilitate the movement of Indian workers to Russia
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Discussions on small modular nuclear reactors
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Measures to strengthen defence collaboration
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Talks on India’s proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU)
Putin’s visit underscores the strategic depth of India–Russia relations at a time of shifting global geopolitics and evolving economic alignments.
