Modi Hosts Putin in India to Discuss Defence, Trade, Ukraine

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, focusing on defence, trade, and energy ties as New Delhi navigates growing US pressure over its purchases of Russian oil.

Putin received a ceremonial welcome with a 21-gun salute at the presidential palace in New Delhi before the formal summit began. This marks his first visit to India since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine.

Key agenda items include major defence sales and co-production ventures, energy purchases, technology partnerships, and broader economic engagement. Putin described the talks as an opportunity to review “a great number of documents” on defence, aircraft, space, and technology cooperation.

The leaders are also expected to address the geopolitical situation following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and global trade disruptions linked to US-imposed tariffs.

Modi welcomed Putin at the airport on Thursday with a warm embrace, followed by a shared ride to a private dinner—echoing a gesture during their last meeting in China in September. Modi described the relationship as “time-tested” and beneficial to both nations.

Putin said he briefed Modi on developments in Ukraine and ongoing efforts with international partners, including the United States, to seek a peaceful settlement. Modi reaffirmed that India remains “on the side of peace.”

Analysts note India’s delicate diplomatic balancing act: relying on strategic Russian oil while managing tensions with the United States. Pankaj Saran, a former Indian envoy to Russia, called it “second nature to Indian foreign policy making.”

The leaders will also meet business and industry leaders before attending a state banquet hosted by Indian President Droupadi Murmu.

India has become a major buyer of Russian oil, saving billions and providing Moscow with a crucial export market amid European sanctions. Defence ties remain strong, though Russia’s share of India’s arms imports fell from 76% in 2009–13 to 36% in 2019–23.

Bilateral trade reached $68.7 billion in 2024–25, nearly six times pre-pandemic levels, though Indian exports to Russia accounted for just $4.88 billion.