Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India on December 5-6 for the 23rd annual India-Russia bilateral summit. Sources familiar with the planning indicate that both sides are working to finalize the agenda for the meeting, though neither New Delhi nor Moscow has formally confirmed the visit.
This will be Putin's first trip to India since the commencement of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in February 2022. He last visited India in 2021. The summit occurs amidst increasingly strong strategic ties between the two nations, especially in light of recent trade tensions between India and the United States.
The agenda for the summit is expected to include discussions on defense, energy, nuclear cooperation, agriculture, and trade. Both nations will likely use the opportunity to assess their evolving relationship amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics. A key focus will be on identifying ways to enhance economic engagement and strengthen the strategic partnership.
Bilateral trade between India and Russia reached a record $68.7 billion in 2024–25, largely driven by India's imports of discounted Russian oil. Addressing the trade imbalance, where Indian exports to Russia remain modest at $4.88 billion, is expected to be a significant point of discussion. Russia is reportedly working to provide market access to Indian exporters who have been affected by U.S. tariffs.
According to sources, Putin is also expected to launch the India edition of Russia's state-backed broadcaster, RT, during his visit.
The deep-rooted strategic partnership between India and Russia has been developing dynamically. Moscow remains a major supplier of arms and energy to India. Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, India has significantly increased its imports of discounted Russian oil, becoming one of Russia's largest buyers and helping to sustain Moscow's revenue despite Western sanctions.
Key defense deals are expected to be high on the agenda, with Russia reportedly pushing for the sale of its Su-57E fifth-generation fighter jet, while India is interested in the advanced S-500 air defense missile system.
Ahead of the summit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is expected to visit India in November to finalize the agenda.
The India-Russia Annual Summit was established in 2000 and is hosted alternately by both countries. Despite interruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, the summit remains a crucial element of bilateral relations. India and Russia's relationship is an example of strategic pragmatism. From Cold War-era allies to 21st-century strategic partners, their journey reflects trust and mutual benefit.
