As Moscow prepares for President Vladimir Putin&rsquo;s two-day visit to India, the Kremlin has signalled a renewed push to build a sanctions-insulated trade architecture between the two countries. Speaking to Indian media via a video link hosted by Russia&rsquo;s Sputnik, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasised the need for a &ldquo;bilateral mechanism to counter a payment system used as a political tool,&rdquo; hinting at a framework designed to shield trade from Western pressure without divulging operational details.
Indian officials remained cautious, noting that the existing rupee-ruble arrangement is already under discussion, but confirming that both sides are examining new ways to stabilise payments and reduce vulnerabilities. The push comes as Indian oil firms scaled back Russian imports following recent US sanctions, a development Peskov downplayed, insisting that &ldquo;some companies may reduce, but others are buying more,&rdquo; while underscoring Russia&rsquo;s &ldquo;deep experience&rdquo; in operating under what he termed &ldquo;illegal sanctions.&rdquo;
Both governments expect significant outcomes from Friday&rsquo;s bilateral engagements, including an agreement on the mobility of skilled and semi-skilled Indian workers an area where Russia faces labour shortages. New Delhi is also working to narrow the widening trade deficit by promoting exports of pharmaceuticals, marine products, processed foods, fruits and consumer durables. Peskov acknowledged the imbalance, saying,&nbsp;&ldquo;We want to buy more from India.&rdquo;
Defence issues are expected to feature prominently in the dialogue, though India maintains that major military deals are not typically signed during summits. Still, Peskov confirmed discussions on India&rsquo;s interest in the Sukhoi Su-57 fighter jet and additional S-400 systems, even as Washington continues to press New Delhi to reduce its dependence on Russian military hardware. Peskov expressed gratitude for India&rsquo;s diplomatic stance amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict, asserting, &ldquo;We appreciate India&rsquo;s position. We are grateful for its friendly approach to bilateral and global affairs.&rdquo;
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Moscow pushes for sanctions-proof trade with India

Russia Seeks Shield for India Ties

Moscow pushes for sanctions-proof trade with India

December 3, 2025 | 15:00 IST