Russian President Vladimir Putin india visit later this year, with the exact dates nearly locked in. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, currently on a trip to Moscow, confirmed the development, calling the upcoming visit a “watershed moment” for the long-standing India-Russia relationship.
“We are very excited to learn about President Putin’s visit to India. I think the dates are almost finalised. Summit-level meetings have always been pivotal in shaping our ties,” Doval said.
Strengthening Defence Ties
Doval is in Moscow to deepen defence cooperation between the two countries, which remains a key pillar of their strategic partnership. His visit comes at a time when global geopolitical dynamics are shifting rapidly, especially with the US turning up the heat on India over its oil trade with Russia.
Trump’s Tariff Move Upsets India
Former US President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed a new executive order slapping an extra 25% tariff on Indian imports, citing national security concerns. With this move, total tariffs on Indian goods now stand at a staggering 50% the highest in the world.
The Trump administration claims that India’s continued purchase of Russian oil undermines America’s foreign policy goals and threatens its national security interests. The executive order has sparked concern in New Delhi, especially as Washington also hinted at possible secondary sanctions on countries buying Russian oil, unless Russia halts its war in Ukraine.
PM Modi Reply
PM Modi also replied about Trump Tariffs and said, “India will never compromise on the interests of our farmers, fishermen & dairy workers. I know I will pay a heavy price, but I’m ready for it. India is ready for it!”
A Critical Visit
Putin’s upcoming visit will be his first trip to India since December 2021. In the past year, he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi met twice — including Modi’s high-profile visit to Moscow in July for the 22nd India-Russia Summit.
With mounting pressure from the US, Putin’s visit is expected to send a strong message about the resilience of India-Russia ties — and could serve as a balancing act in India’s foreign policy amid rising global polarization.
Putin-Trump Meeting Also on the Cards
Adding to the drama, the Kremlin has confirmed that President Putin is also expected to meet with Donald Trump in the coming days. The outcome of that meeting could further shape the global narrative around Russian oil, sanctions, and strategic alliances.
