New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met in New Delhi on December 5, 2025, for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, against a backdrop of increasing pressure from the United States on trade and geopolitical issues. The summit, held during Putin's two-day state visit, focused on strengthening the long-standing bilateral ties between the two nations, particularly in the areas of defense, trade, and energy.
The meeting took place amidst a complex global scenario, with the US pushing for a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine and seeking to isolate Russia economically. Simultaneously, Washington is increasing trade pressure on India, raising tariffs on certain goods, including oil, and urging New Delhi to reduce its reliance on Russian energy.
Despite these external pressures, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a "privileged strategic partnership". Putin lauded Modi as a "very wise leader" who prioritizes national interests and resists external coercion. He questioned the rationale behind the tariffs imposed on India for importing Russian oil, especially when the United States continues to import Russian nuclear fuel.
Modi, in turn, welcomed Putin with a warm reception, personally greeting him at the airport and hosting a private dinner. He presented Putin with a Russian translation of the Bhagavad Gita, symbolizing the cultural and historical depth of the relationship.
Discussions during the summit centered on mitigating the impact of US tariffs on India's purchase of discounted Russian oil, which accounts for 35% of its imports. To balance trade, both leaders prioritized increasing Indian exports of agricultural goods, pharmaceuticals, and medical products to Russia. Several agreements are expected to be signed, encompassing shipping, healthcare, labor mobility, and small modular nuclear reactors for clean energy. The leaders aim to increase bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030.
Defense cooperation remains a crucial pillar of the India-Russia partnership. Modi is expected to push for the expedited delivery of the remaining two S-400 surface-to-air missile systems, part of a $5.4 billion deal inked in 2018. Delays in delivery have been attributed to supply chain disruptions linked to the war in Ukraine.
The summit highlights India's delicate balancing act in its foreign policy. While New Delhi seeks to deepen its strategic partnership with the United States and the European Union, it also values its long-standing relationship with Russia. Critics suggest that India's continued close ties with Russia could strain relations with the US and EU and potentially jeopardize crucial trade negotiations.
The US has expressed concerns that India's purchases of Russian oil are helping to finance Moscow's war efforts. In October, the US sanctioned two major Russian oil producers to pressure countries like India to curtail imports. However, Indian officials have maintained that New Delhi adheres to international sanctions and will continue to do so regarding Russian oil purchases.
As India navigates this complex geopolitical landscape, the Putin-Modi summit underscores the enduring strength of the India-Russia relationship and their shared commitment to expanding cooperation across various sectors, despite external pressures.
