As Russian President Vladimir Putin prepares for his visit to India on December 4-5, 2025, Moscow has lauded New Delhi's "very friendly stand" and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's approach to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Kremlin Spokesperson Dimitry Peskov highlighted Russia's appreciation for India's readiness to seek peaceful solutions and noted the mutual understanding between the two nations.
Putin's visit marks his first trip to India since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war and India's Operation Sindoor. The visit is particularly significant as it comes after a period where India maintained a relatively low profile in its engagement with Russia due to the conflict and pressure from Western countries. In recent months, however, the relationship has shown signs of renewed strength, especially in defense talks.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the summit will allow leaders to review the progress in bilateral relations, set future goals for strengthening the "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership," and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. The Kremlin has also indicated that the talks will cover a broad range of areas, including politics, trade, science, culture, and global issues.
Defense and energy cooperation are expected to be central to the discussions. India is reportedly interested in procuring additional S-400 air defense systems, with three units already delivered and two more expected next year. Discussions will likely address delays in deliveries and explore potential Indian interest in Russia's Su-57 fighter jets. Russia may also offer India further discounts on crude oil, especially given India's reduced oil purchases due to US sanctions.
The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war will also be a key topic of discussion. India has consistently called for an early end to the conflict, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently reiterated the importance of peace efforts. Russia, in turn, has praised India for judging the situation in its entirety and not in a one-sided way.
Despite a decrease in the share of Russian arms imports over the past decade, India's dependence on Russian military equipment remains significant, with 60-70% of its arsenal originating from Russia. The historical trust and interoperability between the two militaries continue to play a crucial role in shaping India's defense preparedness. Both countries are expected to explore renewed collaboration on various defense projects, including the potential supply of additional S-400 regiments to the Indian Air Force. India is also looking at indigenizing nearly half of the S-400 support ecosystem to reduce costs and boost domestic defense capabilities.
The visit occurs against the backdrop of evolving global dynamics and increasing pressure from the United States on countries to distance themselves from Russia. Despite this pressure, India-Russia ties are expected to remain stable. For India, the relationship with Russia is a "time-tested" partnership that demonstrates consistency in its foreign policy. Russia also views India as a crucial partner, with nearly all trade relations being conducted in local currencies, securing the trade and sovereignty of both countries.
