Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to visit India on December 4-5 for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, marking his first trip to the country since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war in February 2022. The visit, announced on Friday, November 28, 2025, is expected to deepen the strategic partnership between the two nations, with several agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) lined up for signing.
The summit will provide an opportunity for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin to review the progress in bilateral relations and set a vision for strengthening the "special and privileged strategic partnership" between India and Russia. Discussions will also encompass regional and global issues of mutual interest. The visit holds significant importance for both countries, allowing them to comprehensively discuss the extensive agenda of their relationship, spanning politics, trade, economy, science, technology, culture, and humanitarian cooperation.
India is likely to seek ways to address the increasing trade deficit with Russia during the meeting. Russia views the visit as an opportunity to review the entire spectrum of the Russia-India special and privileged strategic partnership.
The visit will be closely watched by Western capitals, particularly the United States and the European Union, as India navigates a delicate balancing act in its foreign policy. While India aims to reassert its strategic autonomy by strengthening its defense and trade partnerships with Moscow, it also needs to ensure that the outcomes of the summit do not disrupt its ties with the US and the EU.
Defense and energy are expected to be key areas of focus during the discussions. India has been a major buyer of Russian oil and weapons for decades. Despite diversifying its suppliers and increasing its focus on domestic production, India recognizes Russia as a longstanding friend and an essential partner in defense cooperation.
During the visit, Putin will meet with Prime Minister Modi and will be hosted at a banquet by President Droupadi Murmu. This visit is designated as a state visit, unlike Putin's previous visit in December 2021, which was shorter due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The India-Russia annual summits have been held alternately since 2000, providing a consistent platform for the two countries to strengthen their ties. This meeting occurs amidst complex geopolitical dynamics, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and evolving relationships between India, the US, and other global powers.
