Putin to Visit India Soon, First Since Start of Ukraine War



Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India soon after accepting an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This will be Putin's first trip to India since the outbreak of the Ukraine war in 2022. The announcement was confirmed by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, although specific dates have not been disclosed.


Lavrov noted that PM Modi chose Russia for his first foreign visit after being re-elected for a third term, emphasizing the strong ties between the two nations. "Now it's our turn," he remarked.


Key Topics for Discussion:


The Russia-Ukraine war is expected to be a significant point of discussion during the visit.


Geopolitical dynamics, including the impact of Donald Trump taking over as US President, are also likely to feature in the talks.



India’s Neutral Stance:

India has maintained neutrality on the Ukraine conflict. While PM Modi has repeatedly stated that "this is not the era of war," India has abstained from United Nations resolutions condemning Russia. Additionally, India has refrained from publicly criticizing Putin despite global pressure.


In 2024, PM Modi visited both Moscow and Kyiv, meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, signaling India's diplomatic balancing act.


Bilateral Relations:

India and Russia share a long-standing alliance, particularly in defense and energy sectors. Amid Western sanctions, Russia has offered India discounted oil, bolstering economic ties. During PM Modi's visit to Russia for the 22nd Russia-India summit, both countries agreed to double bilateral trade to USD 100 billion.


The warm relationship between the two leaders was evident when Modi and Putin shared moments such as tea sessions, watching a horse show, and a golf cart tour at Putin's residence — moments that went viral on social media.


The visit is expected to further strengthen the decades-long partnership bet

ween India and Russia.