Russian President Vladimir Putin is likely to visit India on December 5-6 for the 23rd annual India-Russia summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit marks Putin's first trip to India since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began in February 2022.

The planned summit highlights the enduring strategic partnership between India and Russia, despite growing pressure from the United States on India to reduce its ties with Moscow. The two leaders are expected to discuss ways to enhance economic engagement and strengthen their strategic partnership.

Key Discussion Points

Several key areas are expected to be at the forefront of discussions during the summit:

• Trade and Economic Cooperation: Bilateral trade between India and Russia reached a record high of $68.7 billion in 2024-25, primarily driven by India's imports of discounted Russian oil. Addressing the trade imbalance, where Indian exports to Russia remain modest at $4.88 billion, will be a key focus. Discussions will likely cover increasing access to Russia's markets for Indian businesses.
• Defense and Security: Russia remains a major supplier of arms to India. Potential defense deals, including Russia's push for the sale of its Su-57E fifth-generation fighter jet and India's interest in the advanced S-500 air defense missile system, are likely to be on the agenda. Preparations are also reportedly underway for India to potentially procure more S-400 missile systems.
• Energy Cooperation: India's import of Russian crude oil has significantly increased since the start of the Ukraine conflict, making India one of Russia's largest buyers. This has helped sustain Moscow's revenue despite Western sanctions. The two countries will likely explore ways to further strengthen their energy partnership.
• Geopolitical Issues: The leaders are expected to discuss the ongoing situation in Ukraine and its global implications. They will likely exchange perspectives on the shifting geopolitical landscape and explore ways to navigate the challenges.
• Countering US Tariffs: With the United States imposing tariffs on Indian goods over its continued trade with Russia, India and Russia are expected to explore ways to counter the impact of these tariffs and strengthen their economic cooperation.

Significance of the Visit

Putin's visit carries significant weight amid the shifting global dynamics and highlights the importance of the India-Russia strategic partnership. The summit provides an opportunity for both nations to assess their evolving relationship and reaffirm their commitment to deepen cooperation across various sectors.

Ahead of the summit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is expected to visit India in November to finalize the details of Putin's visit. Additionally, a meeting under the framework of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC) is expected to be held before Putin's arrival.