NEW DELHI (Diya TV) — Russian President Vladimir Putin will travel to India on December 4–5 for a state visit at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The trip marks Putin’s first visit since the Russia-Ukraine war began in 2022 and comes at a crucial moment for the long-standing Russia-India partnership.
The visit will coincide with the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. Both leaders are expected to review progress in their Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership and set a roadmap for the coming years. The Ministry of External Affairs said the two sides will discuss regional and global issues, along with major bilateral matters.
Putin’s visit comes as New Delhi and Moscow work to protect their ties amid growing global challenges. India’s strategic autonomy has faced fresh tests following President Donald Trump’s 50 percent export tariffs on India. The tariffs have added pressure on India to reduce Russian oil imports, a move that could weaken the economic bond between New Delhi and Moscow.
A recent Lowy Institute report noted that Moscow could be unhappy if India scales back its Russian crude purchases while considering an alternative liquefied petroleum gas deal with the United States. Russia has urged India to continue buying its energy, arguing that the costs remain competitive.
Putin signaled strong support for India in October when he said at the Valdai discussion forum in Sochi that Indians “will never allow themselves to be humiliated by anyone.” His comments speak to Moscow’s desire to keep India close despite shifting geopolitical winds.
Defense ties remain the backbone of the Russia-India partnership. Officials expect defense agreements to dominate this year’s summit. India relies on Russian military hardware because of its lower costs and easier access to spare parts. The S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile system remains a key component of India’s air defense network.
India ordered five S-400 squadrons in 2018. Russia has delivered three so far, but the last two remain delayed due to the war in Ukraine. Even with the delay, India is considering adding more S-400 units to its future defense plans, according to recent reports.
The S-400 system played a vital role during Operation Sindoor and the 88-hour conflict with Pakistan that followed. Its performance has strengthened India’s interest in expanding its inventory.
Russia has also offered to manufacture Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter jets in India. The proposal aligns with India’s “Make in India” initiative and could deepen long-term defense cooperation. Such a deal would allow India to build advanced aircraft domestically while maintaining strong military ties with Moscow.
Energy trade will remain a sensitive topic during the summit. Russian crude oil has become an important part of India’s energy mix. Any reduction in these imports could affect Moscow’s revenue and New Delhi’s bargaining power. India is now weighing its energy interests against pressure from Washington and other global partners.
At the same time, India wants to expand its strategic options. New Delhi is exploring opportunities with other nations, but it also aims to preserve its historic relationship with Russia. The summit will test India’s ability to maintain this balance.
