Russian President Vladimir Putin is on a two-day visit to India, where he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and participate in the annual bilateral summit. The visit is anticipated to include the signing of several agreements between Delhi and Moscow. This engagement occurs amidst increased pressure from the United States on India regarding its purchase of Russian oil, and concurrently with ongoing US-led discussions concerning Russia and Ukraine. India and Russia have maintained a longstanding alliance.
Russia's Objectives in the Visit
Russia views India as a significant market for its exports, notably crude oil. India, as the world's third-largest consumer of crude oil, has increased its Russian oil imports from 2.5% to 35% following the Ukraine conflict, benefiting from price discounts. However, US tariffs imposed on Indian goods in October due to its Russian oil purchases resulted in a reduction of these orders. A key objective for Russia is to secure continued oil purchases from India.
Defense sales also constitute a priority for Moscow. Reports preceding the visit indicated India's intent to acquire advanced Russian fighter jets and air defense systems. Additionally, Russia identifies India as a potential source for skilled labor.
From a geopolitical perspective, the visit serves to demonstrate Russia's sustained international engagement despite Western efforts to isolate it following the conflict in Ukraine. Meetings with leaders such as Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping reinforce the concept of a "multi-polar world" and highlight Russia's strategic partnerships in Asia, contrasting with its current relationship with the European Union.
India's Strategic Considerations
President Putin's visit holds particular significance for Prime Minister Modi and India's international standing. India-Russia relations, rooted in the Soviet era, have persisted through various geopolitical shifts. Modi has maintained a stance of dialogue regarding the Ukraine conflict, despite pressure from Western governments. This position is reflective of India's "strategic autonomy," allowing it to sustain close ties with both Moscow and Western nations.
The visit is occurring at a time when India-US relations have experienced strain, particularly due to unresolved tariff disputes. This context places India's geopolitical autonomy under review. Modi's diplomatic approach aims to affirm India's alliance with Putin without compromising ongoing trade negotiations with the US or its partnerships with European nations. Balancing autonomy with external pressures and existing dependencies on Moscow presents a strategic challenge for India, as noted by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI).