Russian President Vladimir Putin will be in New Delhi on December 4–5 for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit. This is his first India visit since 2021. The meeting comes at a time when the two countries are trying to keep their long partnership steady while dealing with global pressure, US sanctions and fast-changing economic realities.
A summit is referred to as a high-level meeting where top leaders from different countries sit together to discuss big issues. These gatherings usually come with heavy security, a fixed agenda, and plenty of media attention.
India-Russia summit over the years
For India and Russia, these annual summits have long been the backbone of their “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.” Over the years, the meetings have helped both sides review everything from defence and energy to trade, science, and technology.
In recent years, the summits have only strengthened the relationship between the two countries. India–Russia trade touched a record $65.70 billion in FY 2023–24. And both countries are now looking forward to pushing that number even higher.
What does the India-Russia summit signal?
Above all, these summits give New Delhi and Moscow a steady platform to align their positions on global issues and keep their relationship strong. Despite changes in the global scenario, marred by tariffs, sanctions, etc, the partnership has continued to adjust and stay relevant.
One worry for India is how the US will react. President Donald Trump has already doubled tariffs on Indian goods as a warning against India’s purchases of Russian crude. Any new energy or defence deal with Moscow could invite more pressure from Washington.
Why this visit matters?
Michael Kugelman from the Atlantic Council says this visit gives India a chance to show that its old friendship with Russia is still strong, even if things have been complicated lately. According to him, India-Russia summits have always been more than just photo-ops, they usually produce real results.
“Putin’s visit offers an opportunity for Delhi to reassert the strength of its special relationship with Moscow, despite recent developments, and make headway in new arms deals,” Kugelman told Reuters. “India-Russia summits are never solely optics-driven affairs, given the substance of the relationship,” he added.
Who’s coming with Putin for the India-Russia summit?
Along with Putin, his defence minister, top business leaders and heads of major Russian oil and banking companies, including Rosneft, GazpromNeft, Rosoboronexport and Sberbank, will also travel to India. According to Reuters, Moscow is expected to seek India’s help in getting spare parts and technical equipment for its oil sector, which has been hit hard by sanctions.
India-Russia summit: Energy is the biggest driver
Since 2022, oil has become the strongest link between India and Russia. Moscow is now one of India’s biggest crude suppliers. Despite being slapped by US sanctions, shipments to India have continued. But the new sanction announced on November 21 has made supply routes more complicated. The nations might want to sit and talk this issue out.
India-Russia summit: Big focus on defence talks
Defence is expected to dominate the conversation. India still uses a large number of Russian-made systems, so both sides are set to discuss new deals. According to Bloomberg, topics may include more S-400 air-defence units and possibly even advanced jets like the Su-57, although India hasn’t made any decision yet.
India-Russia summit: Joint manufacturing
New Delhi is likely to push Russia for joint production and technology transfer in areas like missiles, submarines and fighter jets, according to Reuters. This is exactly what India is looking to become more self-reliant in defence.
India-Russia summit: Payments in local currencies
Both sides are likely to talk about using local currencies and alternative payment systems to keep trade running smoothly. This will help bypass Western financial pressure and reduce the risk of sudden sanctions disrupting business.
India-Russia summit: Talks on nuclear energy
According to a report from TOI, Civil nuclear cooperation will also be reviewed. India and Russia already work together in this sector, and there may be discussions on expanding it further, including exploring new reactor technologies.
India-Russia summit: Industrial ties
According to ANI, beyond defence and energy, officials have been meeting on subjects like shipping, agriculture and industrial projects. India and Russia have already agreed to start talks on a free trade deal with the Eurasian Economic Union. There could also be movement on infrastructure and manufacturing partnerships.
India-Russia summit: Trade talks
Putin has asked his top deputy, Denis Manturov, to review trade gaps and suggest solutions. Russia wants to open its market more to Indian products, from machinery and chemicals to food and pharmaceuticals. The trade talks are expected to reach $100 bn, according to ET.
Several new collaborations may be announced. India is likely to set up a urea plant in Russia to secure steady fertiliser supplies. In aviation, HAL and Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation have agreed to jointly produce the SJ-100 passenger aircraft.