Russian President Vladimir Putin’s India visit: High-stakes summit to deliver major trade and defence announcements

Russian President Vladimir Putin will land in New Delhi for a two-day state visit on Thursday evening, during which India and Russia are set to unveil a series of high-level agreements. This marks Putin’s first trip to India since the invasion of Ukraine and coincides with the 25th anniversary of the India–Russia strategic partnership and the 23rd bilateral summit.

Putin will begin his visit with a private dinner hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On Friday, he will receive a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, pay homage at Rajghat and then hold formal talks with PM Modi at Hyderabad House. Major announcements and a joint media statement are expected following the negotiations.

Economic Roadmap and Strategic Dialogue

The discussions are set to focus heavily on trade and economic cooperation, with bilateral trade rising to USD 63.6 billion in 2024. Russia has indicated its willingness to address India’s concerns over the widening trade imbalance and is prepared to propose mechanisms to safeguard financial transactions from external pressures. A key deliverable will be the 2030 roadmap for strategic economic cooperation, along with new agreements in energy, agriculture, media, health and technology. 

Putin’s delegation includes several high-ranking ministers and the Russian Central Bank Governor, underscoring the breadth of the agenda. Both sides will also review progress in security, transport, education, culture and emerging technologies.

Defence Cooperation and Global Issues

Defence ties remain central, with expected discussions on advanced BrahMos variants, hypersonic systems, air-to-air missiles and India’s procurement of additional S-400 units. The leaders will also coordinate on global platforms including the UN, SCO, G20 and Brics.

President Droupadi Murmu will host a state banquet on Friday, after which Putin will depart for Moscow.