Russia&rsquo;s President Vladimir Putin is set to arrive in New Delhi on Thursday for the 23rd India&ndash;Russia Annual Summit, marking his first trip to India since Moscow&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine. The two-day visit signals renewed momentum in bilateral relations, especially in defence, strategic trade and energy cooperation.
Putin&rsquo;s schedule includes a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu and a private dinner hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi soon after his arrival. Discussions are expected to cover a wide range of sectors, including industrial projects, innovative technologies, transport systems, space cooperation, mining, healthcare and labour mobility.
The visit gains added weight as it comes months after the United States imposed steep 50% tariffs on several Indian imports, prompting New Delhi to diversify strategic and economic partnerships.
One of the biggest talking points is expected to be the possibility of Russia supplying Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets to India, which is currently seeking advanced combat aircraft. Putin will also address the Russia&ndash;India Business Forum and attend the launch of RT&rsquo;s India division, highlighting expanding media and business ties.
Energy trade will be a crucial part of the talks. India aims to secure low-cost crude while sidestepping the risk of US sanctions. Both leaders will review ways to raise bilateral trade from the current USD 68 billion to USD 100 billion by 2030. Strengthening mechanisms for settling payments in national currencies and protecting transactions from sanctions will also be on the table.
Other major agenda items include proposals on small modular nuclear reactors, deeper defence industrial cooperation, and agreements enabling Indian workers to take up employment in Russia. Discussions may also touch upon India&rsquo;s proposed free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union.
Putin&rsquo;s visit is expected to conclude with multiple agreements aimed at reinforcing long-term cooperation across strategic sectors.

Modi and Putin meet in Delhi to push defence, trade, energy and strategic cooperation

Putin’s India Visit Set to Boost Key Ties

Modi and Putin meet in Delhi to push defence, trade, energy and strategic cooperation

December 4, 2025 | 09:46 IST