In a high-profile summit in New Delhi, Russian President Vladimir Putin assured India of “uninterrupted shipments” of oil, gas, and coal, while agreeing with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reshape their defence partnership amid mounting pressure from the United States over Russian energy and arms deals. The summit underscores the ongoing strategic alignment between Russia and India even as Western sanctions complicate trade relations.

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Energy Security at the Forefront

Putin emphasized Russia’s commitment as a reliable energy supplier to India, noting the importance of fuel for the rapidly growing economy:

“Russia is a reliable supplier of oil, gas, coal, and everything required for the development of India’s energy. We are ready to continue uninterrupted shipments of fuel for the fast-growing Indian economy.”

India has continued purchasing Russian oil despite a 50 percent US tariff imposed earlier this year on goods linked to Russian energy imports. Moscow has argued that India should enjoy the same access to Russian fuel as other countries, including the United States.

Modi praised Russia’s energy support, describing energy security as a strong pillar of the bilateral partnership, while also pointing to cooperation in nuclear power, health, shipping, and chemicals.

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Reshaping India-Russia Defence Ties

Both leaders signed a joint statement announcing a reorientation of defence cooperation to reflect India’s emphasis on self-reliance:

• Greater focus on joint research and development of advanced defence platforms.
• Collaboration in production of missiles, fighter jets, and other strategic systems.
• Potential expansion of India’s purchase of S-400 missile defence systems and Su-57 stealth fighter jets from Russia.

Officials noted that these steps aim to diversify India’s military supply and strengthen long-term defence cooperation amid evolving regional security dynamics.

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Economic and Strategic Cooperation

During the summit, Putin and Modi agreed on an economic cooperation program until 2030, covering:

• Trade diversification and balance.
• Investment in infrastructure, technology, and employment initiatives.
• Strengthening bilateral ties to reach a trade target of $100 billion by 2030, up from $68 billion in 2024.

The Russian leader’s visit marks his first trip to India since the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, at a time when India has sought relief from US sanctions while maintaining its strategic neutrality in the conflict.

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Diplomatic Gestures and Ceremonial Visits

Putin’s visit was marked by formal and symbolic engagements:

• Rashtrapati Bhavan: Meeting with India’s ceremonial head of state, Droupadi Murmu, alongside Modi, including an honour guard ceremony.
• Raj Ghat: Placing a wreath at the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, paying tribute to India’s independence leader.
• Meetings at Hyderabad House for bilateral talks on trade, defence, and energy cooperation.

The visit was conducted with “much fanfare,” with Modi personally welcoming Putin on the tarmac, highlighting the warmth of the India-Russia strategic partnership despite Western pressure.

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India’s Balancing Act

India’s longstanding 25-year strategic partnership with Russia faces challenges amid US sanctions and geopolitical pressure.

• The US has imposed tariffs and sanctions on Indian imports linked to Russian energy, while Moscow continues to supply India with fuel and defence equipment.
• India has maintained a neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, advocating for peace through dialogue and diplomacy.
• Despite Western pressure, India continues purchasing Russian oil and is exploring expanded defence procurement from Moscow.

Putin’s visit follows recent discussions with a US delegation in Moscow, aiming to negotiate an end to the Ukraine war, though no major breakthroughs were reported.

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Key Takeaways

• Russia commits to uninterrupted fuel shipments to India, reinforcing energy security.
• India and Russia reshape defence ties, emphasizing joint R&D and advanced platform production.
• The bilateral trade goal is set at $100 billion by 2030, reflecting expanding economic cooperation.
• India continues balancing ties with Russia and the US, maintaining neutrality in the Ukraine conflict.