Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in India for a two-day visit, meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of their annual summit. The visit underscores the strong historical alliance between the two nations, with expectations of signing several significant agreements.
🇷🇺🇮🇳 President Vladimir #Putin has arrived in India for a two-day state visit.
The Russian leader received a warm personal welcome from Prime Minister @narendramodi.#DruzhbaDosti pic.twitter.com/jUeufbIdCv— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) December 4, 2025
India, the world’s third-largest crude oil consumer, has substantially increased its Russian oil imports from just 2.5% before the Ukraine invasion to around 35% recently taking advantage of discounted prices amid Western sanctions. This move has drawn criticism from the United States, which recently imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, accusing India of funding Russia’s war efforts.
During the visit, discussions are expected to focus on expanding military cooperation, with reports indicating India’s plans to purchase advanced Russian fighter jets and air defense systems. Additionally, Russia views India as a key source of skilled labor, and both countries are looking to deepen economic ties.
Geopolitically, Moscow aims to demonstrate resilience against Western efforts to isolate it over Ukraine. Putin’s meetings in India and China—where he also held talks with Xi Jinping—serve to reinforce Russia’s stance on a “multi-polar world” and showcase its strategic partnerships with Asian powers.
Analysts note that Russia’s strained relations with Europe contrast sharply with its close ties to Asia. Despite setbacks, Russia emphasizes its "no limits partnership" with China and its "special and privileged strategic partnership" with India, seeking to counterbalance Western influence.
As Putin’s visit continues, attention remains on strengthening Russia-India trade and strategic cooperation, signaling a shift in global alliances amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Indian refiners have saved approximately $12.20 per barrel by purchasing discounted Russian crude.
Reliance, India’s largest private refiner, has already announced it will stop exporting petroleum products made from Russian crude.
Russia is pushing to sell India additional S-400 missile defence systems and Su-57 stealth fighter jets, while both sides aim to reach $100bn in bilateral trade by 2030, though the target now appears distant as oil imports decline.
Modi's Message:
Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin to India. Looking forward to our interactions later this evening and tomorrow. India-Russia friendship is a time tested one that has greatly benefitted our people.@KremlinRussia_E pic.twitter.com/L7IORzRfV9
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2025
In his social media post on X, Modi expressed his delight in welcoming his friend, President Putin, to India. He looked forward to their interactions later this evening and the following day. Modi emphasized that the India-Russia friendship is a time-tested relationship that has greatly benefited their peoples.
