Putin to Visit India for High-Stakes Summit Amid US Pressure

Image Source: Internet

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to arrive in New Delhi on December 4 for the annual India-Russia summit, a crucial meeting that comes as the US continues to pressure India to reduce its reliance on Russian energy and military hardware. The two-day visit marks Putin's first trip to India since the start of the Ukraine conflict in February 2022, and is expected to yield significant agreements and deals. The summit will provide an opportunity for India and Russia to review their bilateral ties, set a vision for strengthening their strategic partnership, and discuss regional and global issues. President Droupadi Murmu will host Putin and host a banquet in his honor, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks with the Russian leader. The two sides have been engaged in discussions on deepening defense cooperation, with India potentially in line for a follow-on order for the S-400 air defense system. The system has proven effective in India's conflict with Pakistan in May. Despite India's decreased purchases of Russian oil, Moscow has offered discounts to maintain its position as a key supplier. The two sides may also unveil new measures for civil nuclear cooperation, as well as address economic issues such as trade imbalances and access to Russia's markets. India's two-way trade with Russia reached a record high of $68.7 billion in 2024-25, largely driven by discounted Russian crude purchases. The summit comes as the US continues to exert pressure on India to reduce its ties with Russia. However, India and Russia have a long history of cooperation, with the two leaders reaffirming their commitment to their strategic partnership at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in China in September. The partnership will mark its 25th anniversary on October 3.