Russian President (Credit:Top Indian News)
International News: Russian President Vladimir Putin is likely to visit India in early December, a move that is drawing attention at a time when global politics is changing very fast. The trip will be part of the India-Russia Annual Summit, a tradition that has remained important for more than two decades.
Both sides are finalising the exact dates, but officials suggest that the visit will take place in the first week of December. For India, this summit holds importance because it will be Putin’s first visit since the Russia-Ukraine war began. It shows Moscow’s focus on strengthening ties with New Delhi even as the West puts pressure.
Before President Putin arrives in India, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is expected to travel to New Delhi. He will hold meetings with Indian leaders to prepare the ground for the summit. During the United Nations General Assembly, Lavrov confirmed that the visit by Putin is in the final stages of planning.
He also made it clear that the United States tariffs on Indian goods will not affect the friendship between India and Russia. This assurance is important as it signals that Moscow and New Delhi are determined to continue their cooperation despite external challenges.
The summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin will cover many critical subjects. Trade will be a top priority, especially with the recent tariffs imposed by Washington. Defence cooperation is also likely to be discussed, as India remains one of the largest buyers of Russian military equipment.
Other topics on the agenda include healthcare, finance, education, humanitarian support, and joint technology projects. The meeting will be closely watched across the world, as it will reflect how India plans to balance its relations between Russia and the United States.
The India-Russia Annual Summit started in the year 2000, and since then both countries have alternated hosting the event. It was interrupted during the Covid-19 pandemic, but it has returned as a pillar of the partnership.
The summit provides a regular platform for leaders to directly address problems and set the direction for the future. Over the years, the summit has produced several agreements on energy, space, defence, and cultural exchange. This year, the importance is even greater because of the current global uncertainty.
The backdrop to Putin’s visit is the rising tension between India and the United States. President Donald Trump has recently announced a 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods, citing India’s continued trade with Russia. Washington believes this step will pressure Moscow to reduce its military actions in Ukraine.
But for India, these tariffs mean higher costs and difficulties in exporting products to the US. Farmers, small industries, and exporters could feel the heat of these new restrictions. The timing of Putin’s visit is therefore significant as it shows India’s intent to keep its strategic options open.
India has continued to purchase discounted Russian oil despite Western pressure, arguing that it is necessary for the country’s energy security. These imports have helped India manage inflation and keep fuel prices in control. However, Washington sees this as support for Russia’s economy during the Ukraine war.
The disagreement has now turned into a trade battle, with tariffs becoming a weapon of pressure. During the summit, India and Russia are expected to discuss ways to work around these sanctions and build financial mechanisms that reduce the impact of US measures.
The upcoming visit will test how strong the India-Russia relationship truly is in today’s world. Both countries have shared deep ties in defence and energy for decades, but the global balance is shifting quickly. With China growing stronger and the US adopting tougher policies, India must carefully manage its foreign policy. Putin’s presence in New Delhi will send a strong message that Russia values India as a reliable partner. For ordinary people, this could mean more affordable oil, new defence deals, and possibly joint projects in technology and healthcare that touch daily lives.
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