Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in New Delhi this evening for a key two-day visit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host him for a private dinner shortly after his arrival, mirroring the warm, informal reception Putin gave Modi during his July 2024 Moscow trip. The meeting is expected to set the tone for the formal talks that follow.
On Friday morning, Putin will receive a ceremonial welcome and visit Rajghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi—now a customary stop for visiting heads of state. He will then join PM Modi for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit at Hyderabad House, where a working lunch is also scheduled.
Defence cooperation will dominate the agenda. India will push for faster delivery of pending military supplies, especially delayed platforms affected by the Ukraine war. Discussions are expected on completing the delivery of all five S-400 air defence units—three have arrived and two are due by mid-next year. The possibility of India expressing interest in Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets is also on the table, as confirmed by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.
Energy security will be a major focus, particularly the impact of U.S. sanctions on India’s imports of discounted Russian crude. Peskov acknowledged that India’s purchases may dip briefly, though Moscow aims to maintain stable supply.
Putin’s visit comes amid recent India–U.S. tensions, including Washington’s imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian exports and 25% levies linked to Russian oil purchases. Putin is also expected to update PM Modi on the latest U.S. diplomatic moves on the Ukraine conflict. India continues to advocate for dialogue and positions itself as a potential mediator.
SOURCE: THE MINT

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