Putin's Visit to Modi: Strengthening Ties Amidst Geopolitical Tensions

Thu Dec 04 2025 15:21:41 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Vladimir Putin arrives in Delhi for a two-day summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss critical trade agreements, oil purchases, and defend relations against increasing Western pressure.

As Russian President Vladimir Putin makes a significant visit to India, the focus is on how both leaders will navigate their longstanding alliance amidst a backdrop of geopolitical complexities. With India’s oil imports from Russia surging and defense purchases on the table, this meeting not only aims to solidify their bilateral relations but also address the delicate balance Modi must maintain with the West amid ongoing tensions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is embarking on a two-day visit to India, marking a crucial summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set against the backdrop of complex geopolitical pressures and trade discussions. The meeting comes at a time when the US is intensifying its efforts to curb India's imports of Russian oil, which have increased dramatically in recent months.

Historically, India and Russia have maintained strong ties, dating back to the Cold War era. However, the evolving global landscape brings new challenges. While India aims to strengthen its relationship with Russia, Modi must also carefully navigate the US's insistence on reducing oil imports from Moscow.

During the visit, both leaders are expected to sign several key agreements, which may include defense deals as India looks to procure advanced military technology from Russia. This is while India's defense purchases from Russia have seen a significant decline as the country diversifies its suppliers.

Putin's engagement with Modi is also significant as it challenges the narrative of Western isolation following the invasion of Ukraine.

Modi's ability to juggle these relationships will be critical, especially as he faces domestic and international pressure regarding India's stance on Russia's actions in Ukraine. The outcomes of this summit will not only impact India-Russia relations but also have broader implications for global trade dynamics and geopolitical alliances.