Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on December 4–5, 2025, to attend the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He will hold talks with Modi and meet President Draupadi Murmu, who will host a banquet in his honour. A number of new agreements are expected as both countries aim to strengthen their “special and privileged strategic partnership.”
When was Putin’s last India visit?
Putin last came to India on December 6, 2021, for the 21st Annual Summit in New Delhi. It was the first visit post pandemic. The leaders discussed on defence cooperation, including joint production of BrahMos missiles, and expanded ties in trade, energy and space.
The summit also hosted the first 2+2 ministerial meeting, that helped in better coordination between defence and foreign ministers of both countries. From nuclear reactors to major defence deals like the S-400 air defence system, India and Russia have signed many large agreements over past summits.
The 2025 visit comes at a crucial time, with both countries looking to keep cooperation strong despite global geopolitical challenges.
Putin’s visit amid oil controversy
The visit is taking place amid US President Donald Trump’s repeated request to Modi to stop buying oil from Russia. In August, Trump added a 25% tariff on Indian goods, which Moscow said was an unfair trade pressure on India.
As reported by Reuters, India’s oil imports from Russia are expected to drop in December, reaching their lowest level in at least three years.
This follows high imports in November, as refiners try to find other options to avoid breaking Western sanctions. During his visit to India from December 4 to 5, Putin will meet with Modi and also have a separate meeting with President Droupadi Murmu. The Kremlin said that several intergovernmental and commercial agreements will be signed.