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What key decisions will shape India Russia ties as Vladimir Putin begins his two day visit to New Delhi with defence trade and energy issues at the forefront and both nations navigating global tensions and shifting geopolitical pressures?
Putin begins his visit with a private dinner hosted by PM Modi.
New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin begins a significant two day visit to India that is expected to influence the future of bilateral relations across defence energy and trade. The visit comes during a period of global volatility and evolving strategic alignments making this round of talks especially important for both countries. Here is a detailed breakdown in ten key points.
1. Putin arrives in New Delhi for a high level diplomatic engagement
President Putin lands in the national capital this evening marking the start of a crucial diplomatic mission. The visit seeks to reinforce the long standing India Russia partnership which has continued to adapt despite global geopolitical shifts and renewed international tensions.
2. Prime Minister Modi to host Putin for a private informal dinner
Within hours of his arrival Putin will join Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an intimate dinner. This gesture echoes the hospitality shown by Moscow during the Prime Minister’s 2024 visit and is expected to create a relaxed environment for candid conversations before formal negotiations begin.
3. Ceremonial reception and homage at Rajghat on Friday
Tomorrow will begin with a ceremonial welcome for Putin after which he will visit Rajghat to pay his respects at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. This visit has become a tradition for global leaders and underscores India’s diplomatic culture and historical values.
4. Annual bilateral summit set to take place at Hyderabad House
The centrepiece of the visit is the twenty third India Russia annual summit. The two leaders are expected to hold extensive discussions on defence procurement energy cooperation economic exchanges and long term strategic planning. A working lunch hosted by Modi will accompany the talks.
5. India likely to push for faster delivery of pending defence equipment
India is expected to highlight delays in certain defence deliveries which were affected by the conflict in Ukraine. With several military systems awaiting completion New Delhi hopes to secure clear timelines for supply in order to maintain operational readiness and strategic balance.
Putin’s visit to boost India-Russia relations; Can ties defy western pressure?
6. Review of S400 missile system deliveries expected at summit
A key component of the defence discussions will be the S400 air defence systems. India signed a multibillion dollar deal in 2018 for five units. Three units have already been inducted and demonstrated strong capabilities during Operation Sindoor. India now seeks assurance that the remaining two units will arrive by mid next year.
7. Discussion on Su57 fifth generation fighter jets may take place
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has indicated that the Russian side may discuss India’s interest in the Su57 advanced fighter jet. India is currently evaluating multiple next generation platforms and the Su57 could become a contender in this competitive field alongside Western and European options.
8. Energy security concerns to dominate talks amid sanction pressures
Energy cooperation remains a major pillar of India Russia ties. With United States sanctions influencing India’s import of Russian crude the two nations will explore mechanisms to stabilise energy flows. Russia has suggested that any decline in supplies would be temporary as efforts continue to maintain volumes.
Putin’s India Visit: S-400, Su-57 jets and deeper strategic cooperation — what’s on the agenda?
9. Parallel meeting between defence ministers to focus on key hardware
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov will hold their own discussions during the visit. Talks will likely cover hardware contracts joint manufacturing projects spare parts assurance and future technological integration.
10. Ukraine conflict updates expected as India maintains balanced approach
Putin is expected to brief Prime Minister Modi on recent international diplomatic moves surrounding the Ukraine crisis. India has maintained a consistent stance of promoting dialogue and diplomacy opting not to criticise any party while positioning itself as a neutral and potential mediating force.
