Putin to Arrive in India for Two-Day Visit; Key Defence, Trade and Currency Talks on Agenda Amid US Tariff Pressure
Putin Begins Two-Day India Visit Tomorrow; Defence and Trade Talks Expected to Dominate Agenda: Russian President Vladimir Putin will arrive in India tomorrow for a two-day state visit on December 4 and 5, during which he will participate in the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit. The visit comes at a critical moment, as the United States has imposed tariffs on India for continuing to purchase discounted Russian oil. Despite this pressure, New Delhi and Moscow have remained strategically aligned, with both nations emphasising the “special” nature of their relationship.
Putin accepted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation to visit New Delhi, underscoring the continued momentum in bilateral ties. During his stay, he will hold high-level talks with PM Modi focused on strengthening cooperation across defence, energy, and trade sectors. President Droupadi Murmu will officially welcome Putin at Rashtrapati Bhavan and host a state banquet in his honour.
Trade and Currency Talks Expected
India is expected to raise concerns about the US tariff threat, while Russia will push for steps to expand imports of Indian goods. Currently, India imports goods worth nearly $65 billion from Russia—primarily oil—while Russia buys only about $5 billion worth of Indian products. Moscow has signalled its willingness to correct this imbalance and explore transactions in national currencies to shield bilateral trade from external sanctions.
Defence Cooperation to Take Centre Stage
Defence engagement will be a major pillar of the summit. Key discussions may include:
- Joint production of BrahMos missiles
- Possible procurement of Sukhoi Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets
- Technology transfer for additional S-400 air defence systems
- Collaboration on small modular nuclear reactor technology
Russia is reportedly ready to address India’s concerns around pricing, delivery, and future defence industrial cooperation.
Strengthening Economic Ties Despite Global Pressure
Russia has expressed interest in buying more Indian goods, expanding energy partnerships, and deepening cooperation in sectors beyond hydrocarbons. Despite Western restrictions on Russian oil, Moscow seeks to further strengthen trade with India and China, both of which have seen significant growth in bilateral commerce with Russia over the last three years.
Global Issues and Europe’s Escalating Tensions
The leaders are also likely to discuss the broader geopolitical climate. Putin recently commented on rising tensions in Europe, saying, “If Europe wants to go to war, we are ready now. The Europeans have no peace agenda; they are on the verge of war.” His remarks highlight the shifting global security landscape that will inevitably influence India–Russia strategic dialogue.
As Putin’s aircraft touches down in India, expectations are high for renewed commitments and potential breakthrough agreements that could shape the next phase of the India–Russia partnership—one rooted in strategic autonomy, defence cooperation, and resilient economic ties despite global headwinds.
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