Putin Begins Two-Day India Visit Focusing on Defence Energy and Trade Talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi on Thursday, December 4, 2025, for a two-day state visit, including the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the visit commences with a private dinner hosted by the Prime Minister, reciprocating the hospitality during Modi's July 2024 trip to Moscow. This informal meeting aims to establish the framework for subsequent formal discussions.

The official itinerary on Friday, December 5, begins with a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by President Putin's homage at Rajghat to Mahatma Gandhi, a standard protocol for visiting dignitaries. The summit's core proceedings will occur at Hyderabad House, featuring bilateral talks and a working lunch hosted by Prime Minister Modi for the Russian delegation, which includes Defence Minister Andrei Belousov and representatives from major Russian firms.

Defence matters will dominate the agenda, with India pushing for timely delivery of the remaining S-400 air defence systems under the 2018 USD 5 billion agreement, where three units have already been supplied. Conversations may also explore India's potential interest in the Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet, amid evaluations of alternatives like the Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon. Separate talks between Defence Ministers Rajnath Singh and Andrei Belousov will address delays caused by the Ukraine conflict.

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Energy cooperation and the effects of U.S. sanctions on Russian oil imports to India will be key topics, as recent tariffs have led to projections of reduced volumes in December. Both nations plan to discuss alternative payment systems, such as rupee-ruble mechanisms, to sustain trade and narrow the bilateral deficit. Infrastructure investments are also anticipated to feature in the deliberations.

The engagement occurs against the backdrop of strained India-U.S. relations due to tariffs on Indian goods linked to Russian procurements. President Putin is expected to update Prime Minister Modi on U.S. diplomatic efforts regarding Ukraine, with India reiterating its commitment to dialogue as the sole resolution path. The summit is likely to result in multiple agreements enhancing political, economic, scientific, and cultural ties, culminating in a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu.

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