Putin visits India amid Ukraine peace push: What’s on the agenda? | Vladimir Putin News | Al Jazeera
Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting India for the first time since the 2022 Ukraine war, marking a critical moment in Moscow–Delhi relations after four years. The two-day visit aims to revive the long-standing strategic partnership between Russia and India despite growing pressure from the United States over New Delhi’s heavy reliance on Russian oil. The agenda includes strengthening defence cooperation—with discussions expected on missile systems and fighter jets—as well as boosting broader trade, energy, nuclear and technological collaboration. While Russia seeks to show it remains connected on the global stage, India is attempting to maintain a delicate balance between its historic ties to Moscow and increasing engagement with the West.
The Key points
- Putin’s visit is the first by a Russian head of state to India since the Ukraine war, underscoring the significance of reviving bilateral ties.
- A private dinner with India’s leader kicks off the visit, followed by formal meetings at Rashtrapati Bhavan and summit talks at Hyderabad House.
- Defence is a top priority: India may discuss additional S-400 air defence system units and possibly Su-57 fighter jet procurement.
- Energy and trade remain central, though India’s import of Russian crude has drawn US scrutiny and sanctions pressure.
- Bilateral trade surged from about $10 billion to nearly $69 billion since 2022, largely due to oil — but remains heavily skewed.
- India faces a growing trade deficit, exporting only a fraction of what it imports from Russia (mainly machinery and pharmaceuticals).
- Russia hopes to diversify cooperation into agriculture, manufacturing, nuclear energy and technology.
- New Delhi may explore labour-migration arrangements, as Russia anticipates a workforce shortfall by 2030.
- The visit sends a signal of strategic autonomy by India, balancing relations with Russia while managing Western expectations.
- Analysts view the summit as an opportunity for both countries to reaffirm their “special and privileged strategic partnership,” even amid global pressure and shifting alliances.
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