India-Russia Summit: Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on Thursday for a two-day state visit, greeted warmly by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His visit came as India was under growing international scrutiny over its energy purchases from Russia with Putin saying that if the United States could buy Russian fuel, India should be accorded the same right.
This visit is going to be a very defining moment in India-Russia relations given that it underlined decades-long strategic cooperation and also involved the current geopolitical challenges.
India-Russia Relations as Historical Perspective
The partnership between India and Russia is deeply rooted in the times of the Soviet Union. For decades, their relationship has withstood every political change around the world. Putin has put in immense effort to keep this alliance intact and growing.
For India, the relationship signifies strategic autonomy with a balancing act of being close to Moscow while pursuing a relationship with Western powers. PM Modi’s approach emphasizes dialogue over confrontation, ensuring India can safeguard its national interests while navigating global pressures.
Key Agreements Expected Over PM Modi-Putin Dinner
The two are expected to finalise several big-ticket decisions at a private dinner at Lok Kalyan Marg that could define India-Russia relations for the next decade:
- S-400 Regiment-4 Final Approval: Completion of procurement and deployment of advanced air defence systems.
- Su-57 Production Line in Nashik: Agreement to start local production of the fifth-generation fighter jets.
- Six New Nuclear Reactors: This is part of the expansion of India’s nuclear energy capacity with Russia.
- Modernization of defence systems: equipping Indian forces with R-37 air-to-air missiles and long-range S-500 air defence systems.
- Strategic Energy and Trade Deals: Potential agreements to deepen cooperation in energy imports and other bilateral trade projects.
Putin’s convoy just vanished behind the gates of 7 Lok Kalyan Marg.
No press.
No cameras.
Just Modi & Putin, one table, and the next 10 years of India-Russia ties being written tonight.While the rest of the world is still typing headlines…
Delhi is already signing them.… pic.twitter.com/NvWKOvdGUq— Himanshu Jain (@HemanNamo) December 4, 2025
These would inevitably result in consolidating long-term strategic relations and further enhancing India’s defence and energy capabilities.
Major Defence Projects on the Agenda
Both countries are likely to review and take forward nearly a dozen key defence projects, including the second major upgrade of Su-30 fighter aircraft of India, integration of R-37 air-to air missiles with a reach of more than 200 km and deployment of advanced air defence systems including long-range S-400 and S-500 units and Verba short-range systems during President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India. These plans are part of the endeavour to strengthen India’s aerial defence and modernise its military infrastructure with Russian help.
Energy & Nuclear Cooperation
Energy cooperation features prominently on the agenda of the summit. Putin’s statement regarding India’s right to purchase Russian fuel underlines the significance of energy security to New Delhi.
ALSO READ: ‘If US Can Buy Russian Fuel, Why Not India?’ Putin Responds to Trump Tariffs & Sanctions
Nuclear projects also form part of the discussions, possibly agreements over new reactors, enhancing India’s power infrastructure and contributing toward meeting the country’s growing energy requirements. This further reinforces India’s commitment to diversification of energy sources and deepening its ties with Moscow.
Summit Atmosphere & Strategic Significance
The summit commenced with a private dinner hosted by PM Modi at Lok Kalyan Marg, symbolizing the personal rapport between the leaders. The talks are expected to shape defence, energy and economic ties for years to come amidst high global scrutiny.
From Ganga Aarti welcome to discussions over high-tech military and atomic projects, this visit underlines the timeless yet ever-evolving India-Russia partnership in a complex emerging world.
ALSO READ: India-Russia Summit: Agenda Set to Discuss R-37, S-400, and BrahMos NG in India-Russia Talks
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute official statements from the Indian or Russian governments.
