POLITICS

Putin in Delhi: A Big Push for India-Russia

Image credit: Narendra Modi’s X Post

Link to the Narendra Modi receiving Vladimir Putin at Delhi Airport video

In early December 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi for his first visit in four years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed him warmly, and the visit was treated as a major moment for both countries.

A Partnership Built Over Decades

India and Russia have shared a strong bond for many years, known as their “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.” During this visit, both sides agreed to make the relationship even stronger. They discussed cooperation in defence, energy, science, technology, trade, and diplomacy.

Image credit: Narendra Modi’s X Post

At a time when global politics is shifting, and Russia faces sanctions, the visit showed that India still values Russia as an important partner. It also highlighted India’s ability to balance relations with different major powers.

Big Trade Plans for the Future

One of the major outcomes was a new Economic Cooperation Programme that will guide both countries until 2030. The aim is to increase the current trade value of about $68.7 billion to $100 billion.

Image credit: Narendra Modi’s X Post

India and Russia want to go beyond buying and selling oil or defence equipment. They’re looking to expand into areas like manufacturing, clean energy, minerals, pharma, agriculture, food processing, and new technology collaborations.

There’s also fresh momentum to sign a Free Trade Agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union, which could make it easier for Indian products to enter Russian and Eurasian markets.

Energy & Defence: Still the Backbone

Energy remained one of the main discussion points. Putin assured India that Russia will continue supplying oil and fuel without interruption, despite global sanctions. This promise is crucial for India’s energy security.

Image credit: Narendra Modi’s X Post

On the defence front, both sides agreed to deepen cooperation, focusing on joint manufacturing, co-production, sharing technology, and strengthening military ties. These steps aim to reduce India’s dependency on imports and build capabilities within the country.

A Balanced Approach in a Complicated World

What makes this visit important is India’s clear message: it will continue to follow an independent foreign policy. Despite pressure from Western countries to reduce ties with Russia, India maintained its balanced approach, keeping strong relations with both Russia and the West.

Image credit: Narendra Modi’s X Post

For Russia, the visit helped reinforce partnerships outside the Western sphere. For India, it strengthened its trade, energy, and defence needs while preparing for a more uncertain global future.

The Bottom Line

Putin’s visit wasn’t just a diplomatic event. It created a fresh roadmap for India–Russia ties, focusing on stronger trade, reliable energy, deep defence cooperation, and long-term strategic trust. The visit marks a new chapter in a partnership that has stood firm for decades.