Moscow/New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to visit India on December 4-5, invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to strengthen bilateral ties and address global issues, according to statements from the Kremlin and India’s Foreign Ministry. This marks Putin’s first trip to India since December 2021, shortly before Russia’s military actions in Ukraine began in February 2022.
During the two-day state visit, Putin will engage in talks with Modi and meet President Droupadi Murmu separately. The agenda includes signing various intergovernmental and commercial agreements, emphasizing the “particularly privileged strategic partnership” between the nations. The Kremlin highlighted cooperation in political, trade, economic, scientific, technological, cultural, and humanitarian areas.
The visit comes amid U.S. pressure, with President Donald Trump urging Modi to halt Russian oil purchases. India, a major buyer of Russian crude, is expected to see imports drop to a three-year low in December, down from November highs, as refiners seek alternatives to comply with Western sanctions, per trade sources.
This diplomatic engagement underscores Russia’s efforts to bolster alliances amid geopolitical tensions, while India navigates energy security and international relations.