Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India later this year, with the exact dates yet to be finalized. This announcement emerged during the visit of India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval to Moscow, where he engaged in discussions with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu.
Doval expressed New Delhi’s enthusiasm about the forthcoming visit, labeling prior India-Russia summits as “watershed moments” in the two nations’ relationship. He emphasized the significance of their long-standing strategic partnership, stating, “You have very rightly mentioned that we have a very special relationship, a long relationship, and we highly value our strategic partnership. These high-level engagements have contributed very substantially.”
In recent interactions, Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met twice last year. Their first encounter occurred during the 22nd India-Russia Summit in Moscow in July, where Modi was honored with Russia’s highest civilian award, the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle. The second meeting was held in Kazan in October, coinciding with the BRICS Summit.
A joint statement following their July discussions indicated that both leaders recognized the extensive nature of their cooperation, covering areas such as defense, nuclear energy, trade, space exploration, education, and culture. They also expressed a commitment to pursuing new collaborative opportunities while further reinforcing existing partnerships.
Putin’s impending visit coincides with escalating tensions between India and the United States, particularly after President Donald Trump imposed an additional 25 percent tariff on Indian imports. This tariff has surfaced as a response to India’s ongoing purchase of Russian crude oil, which the U.S. contends hampers efforts to pressure Moscow regarding the conflict in Ukraine. Trump has also hinted at potential secondary sanctions against buyers of Russian oil unless a ceasefire is agreed upon quickly.
In a related development, the Kremlin has indicated that discussions for a possible meeting between Putin and Trump are underway, potentially occurring within days. This introduces an additional layer of geopolitical complexity, particularly for India as it navigates its strategic alliances.
Given the tension with Washington and the significance of Putin’s upcoming visit, India’s balancing act between its historical partnership with Russia and its evolving relationship with the United States will likely attract heightened scrutiny in the months ahead.
