Putin's Strategic Visit to India: Key Discussions and Security Measures
Putin's Arrival and Diplomatic Agenda
New Delhi, Dec 4: Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to arrive in New Delhi on Thursday evening for a meticulously planned visit that is deemed essential for maintaining India's enduring strategic alliance with Russia.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will welcome him with a private dinner shortly after his arrival at approximately 4:30 PM, reflecting the hospitality shown by Putin during Modi's visit to Moscow last July.
During his approximately 28-hour visit, the two nations will engage in a comprehensive diplomatic and security agenda, highlighted by the 23rd annual India-Russia summit scheduled for Friday.
Before their meeting, President Putin will pay his respects at Rajghat on Friday morning, followed by a ceremonial welcome.
Modi will then host a working lunch for Putin and his delegation at Hyderabad House, where the summit is anticipated to yield several agreements related to trade, mobility, and defense cooperation, including a framework to facilitate the movement of Indian workers to Russia and logistical support arrangements.
Discussions are expected to focus on defense relations, strategies to mitigate external pressures on bilateral trade, and potential collaboration on small modular nuclear reactors.
Officials have indicated that Indian exports in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, food products, and consumer goods are likely to increase as part of efforts to rebalance trade.
On the defense front, talks between the defense ministers of both countries on Thursday will pave the way for discussions regarding India's planned acquisition of additional S-400 missile systems, which have proven effective during Operation Sindoor.
Moscow may also propose supplying Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets, while India is currently assessing various options including the Rafale, F-21, F/A-18, and Eurofighter Typhoon. Energy cooperation, including Russia's offer of additional discounts on crude oil, will also be discussed.
Following the summit, Putin is expected to inaugurate a new India channel for Russia's state broadcaster before attending a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu. He is scheduled to depart around 9:30 PM on Friday.
In preparation for the visit, Delhi has implemented extensive security measures. Over 5,000 police personnel, anti-drone technology, snipers, SWAT teams, and advanced surveillance systems have been deployed throughout the capital, ensuring that all VVIP routes are secured and coordination is ongoing.
The specifics of Putin's accommodation remain confidential, and traffic advisories will be issued to minimize disruptions as the city prepares for one of its most sensitive visits this year.
This visit comes at a time of strained relations with Washington, closely monitored by Western nations amid renewed American efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine.
New Delhi, which has consistently maintained that diplomacy and dialogue are the only viable solutions, is expected to address the impact of US sanctions on its significant procurement of Russian crude oil and highlight the growing trade deficit that has increasingly favored Moscow.