Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on December 4-5 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Kremlin and India’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the visit on Friday. Officials said the trip aims to strengthen bilateral ties and address several international issues.
Key Meetings Planned
During the state visit, Putin will hold formal talks with Modi in New Delhi. He will also meet Indian President Droupadi Murmu in a separate engagement. The Kremlin said both sides will sign several intergovernmental and commercial agreements. However, it did not disclose the contents of those documents.
Strategic Partnership in Focus
The Kremlin described the visit as highly significant for both nations. It said the meeting offers a chance to review the full agenda of Russian-Indian relations. It added that the partnership holds the status of a “particularly privileged strategic partnership.” The relationship covers political, trade, economic, scientific, technological, cultural, and humanitarian fields.
Visit Comes at a Critical Time
Putin last visited India in December 2021. His upcoming trip will be his first since the start of the Ukraine conflict in February 2022. The geopolitical environment has changed sharply since then. Therefore, the visit carries considerable diplomatic weight for both countries.
Pressure Over Russian Oil Purchases
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly urged Modi to stop buying Russian oil. India remains one of the largest buyers of Russian crude. However, new trade patterns are emerging due to global sanctions. Trade sources said India’s Russian oil imports are expected to drop in December. They said the purchases may fall to their lowest level in at least three years. Refiners have turned to alternative suppliers to avoid breaching Western sanctions. They said the shift follows recent multi-month highs recorded in November.
Broader Diplomatic Implications
The visit may influence regional dynamics and economic cooperation. Analysts expect energy, defense, and technology to remain central to discussions. The timing signals continued engagement between Moscow and New Delhi despite international pressure.
