Russian President Vladimir Putin Targets Higher Indian Imports Ahead of Key India Visit, Slams Europe for ‘Choosing War’

Vladimir Putin said he will push for increased Indian imports during his upcoming visit to India. He also accused European countries of abandoning diplomacy and “choosing war” instead, a sharp critique aimed at the West. 

The remarks come just ahead of a high-stakes visit to India scheduled for December 4–5, 2025, where Putin is set to meet Narendra Modi and discuss a broad agenda of trade, energy, defence and economic cooperation. 

What Putin Wants from India?

Putin said he will talk with PM Modi about expanding the range of goods Russia imports from India. He noted that trade volumes between Russia and India — and also China — have risen sharply over the last few years. 

Russia plans to lower trade barriers, buy more Indian agricultural produce and pharmaceuticals, and underwrite manufacturing cooperation under India’s “Make in India”-style framework. 

If the deal succeeds, it could help correct the long-standing trade imbalance between the two nations — bringing more stability and a broader base for economic cooperation. 

Why Russia Criticised Europe — And What It Means?

In his speech at a Russian investment forum, Putin accused European nations of abandoning diplomacy and opting for confrontation instead. He warned that Europe had “chosen war” and claimed Russia stood prepared if needed. 

He argued that certain Western powers were leveraging their dominant positions to suppress fair global competition — an approach Russia said it would resist by deepening partnerships with countries like India. 

This rhetoric also signals Russia’s intent to bolster ties outside the Western orbit — positioning India as a key strategic partner amid global economic strain and sanctions.

What to Expect from the India–Russia Talks?

When Putin lands in New Delhi, the agenda is expected to cover:

• Expanding trade and imports from India, especially in agriculture and pharmaceuticals.
• Strengthening cooperation in energy, defence, and manufacturing — including setting up new production units under Russia’s support for India’s economic framework.
• Exploring new mechanisms for trade — such as settlement in national currencies and reducing reliance on dollar-dominated systems.
• Reinforcing strategic ties despite pressure from other global powers, by emphasising a “privileged partnership” grounded in mutual interests.

Why This Visit Matters for India?

For India, the visit offers a chance to reset and rebalance its trade and energy equation amidst global uncertainty. Russian investments and relaxed trade barriers could boost sectors like agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing.

It also strengthens New Delhi’s strategic autonomy: despite global pressures, especially from the US and Europe, India may deepen its ties with a major partner still outside Western economic sanctions regimes.

If the negotiations succeed, the partnership may deliver long-term economic gains for both countries — and send a signal that global trade alliances are shifting toward newer alignments.