What to Expect from Vladimir Putin's Historic Visit to India?

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India for a two-day state visit, marking his first trip since the Ukraine conflict began. The visit includes a private dinner with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, focusing on strengthening defense ties and discussing trade agreements. Key discussions will revolve around facilitating Indian workers' movement to Russia and India's proposed free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union. This visit aims to enhance the longstanding partnership between the two nations, which has evolved significantly over the years.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 4, 2025, 13:35 IST

Putin's Arrival in India

On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin embarked on a two-day official visit to India, as reported by local news outlets. He is anticipated to arrive in New Delhi later in the evening, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host him for a private dinner, echoing the hospitality shown by Putin during Modi's visit to Moscow last year. This trip marks Putin's first visit to India since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in 2022.

Focus of the India-Russia Annual Summit

The 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit is set for Friday, coinciding with recent sanctions imposed by the US on India. The summit aims to bolster defense collaboration and will also cover trade and energy partnerships. A ceremonial welcome will greet Putin upon his arrival, followed by formal discussions. After the talks, both leaders will address the media, and Putin will pay his respects at the Mahatma Gandhi memorial.

Russian Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov highlighted the significance of the private dinner between Putin and Modi, describing it as a pivotal moment of the visit. Ushakov noted that the discussions will encompass crucial bilateral relations and global issues.

Agreements and Future Cooperation

During his visit, Putin is expected to engage in both narrow and expanded discussions with Modi, focusing on trade and economic cooperation. Several agreements are anticipated, including one aimed at facilitating the movement of Indian workers to Russia. Additionally, the two nations may discuss India's proposed free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union, which aims to enhance strategic and economic ties.

Following the summit, Putin will attend a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu and is set to launch a new India channel for Russia's state broadcaster RT, indicating a push for greater media outreach and soft power engagement.

Strengthening India-Russia Relations

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that this State Visit will allow India and Russia to assess their bilateral relations and outline a vision for enhancing their 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.' Russia has been a steadfast ally for India, with the relationship evolving significantly since the signing of the 'Declaration on the India-Russia Strategic Partnership' in October 2000. This partnership has fostered cooperation across various sectors, including politics, security, defense, trade, economy, science, technology, culture, and people-to-people interactions.