Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met in New Delhi for a high-stakes bilateral summit focused on trade expansion, Ukraine peace efforts, and navigating US sanctions tied to Russian oil. The visit marks Putin’s first trip to India since the Russia–Ukraine war escalated in 2022 and comes at a time when India is seeking relief from US tariffs and sanctions affecting discounted Russian crude imports, a crucial pillar of India’s energy strategy.
During the opening session, Modi reiterated India’s firm stance on global peace and diplomatic resolution, stating, “India is not neutral — India has a position, and that position is for peace.” Putin thanked Modi for his engagement in discussions related to the Ukraine conflict and noted ongoing efforts with global partners, including the United States, toward a potential peaceful settlement.
The summit holds major geopolitical significance as Moscow pushes to strengthen its ties with India — now the largest buyer of Russian defence equipment and a rapidly growing energy partner. Both nations aim to increase bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030, up from a record $68 billion in 2024, driven largely by oil, defence cooperation, and emerging technology sectors.
Putin received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan alongside President Droupadi Murmu and PM Modi, followed by a visit to Raj Ghat where he paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. The leaders then held strategic talks at Hyderabad House, with scheduled engagements involving top business and trade delegations.
The visit underscores India’s balancing act in global geopolitics: maintaining its strategic autonomy, deepening ties with Russia, and managing pressure from Western nations amid ongoing scrutiny of Moscow’s wartime actions. Analysts note that Modi’s warm reception — including a tarmac greeting and private dinner on Thursday — signals India’s intention to sustain a strong partnership despite global tensions.
International observers also pointed to the optics of the visit, given the ICC arrest warrant against Putin issued in 2023. India, not being a member of the ICC, is not bound by its rulings, allowing Putin to travel freely for the summit.
Putin is scheduled to depart New Delhi at 9 PM local time (15:30 GMT), concluding a day that showcased robust India–Russia ties, diplomatic messaging on the Ukraine peace process, and ongoing discussions surrounding trade, energy security, and sanctions management
