Kremlin has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to visit India in early 2025. This announcement comes after Putin received an official invitation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov, cited by the Russian Embassy in India, stated that despite it being Russia’s turn to host the annual India-Russia summit, the invitation from Modi would be carefully considered.
Ushakov emphasized that Russia and India have an understanding to hold meetings once a year, and this year, it is Russia’s responsibility to host the summit. “We received Mr. Modi’s invitation and will certainly consider it positively,” Ushakov said. He added that the tentative dates for the visit would be finalized early next year.
This visit will be significant, as India is set to become the first country outside of China and Russia’s neighboring states that Putin will visit in recent times. Although Russia’s ties with the West have been strained, particularly due to Putin’s involvement in the war on Ukraine, Moscow’s relations with the Global South, including India, remain strong. Russia’s role in the BRICS Summit earlier this year highlighted its continued engagement with nations outside the Western sphere.
India has maintained strong historical ties with Russia, but its relations with the United States and Western nations have grown in recent years. India has faced criticism from the West for its ongoing relationship with Russia, especially regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. However, India has also expressed interest in playing a mediating role in the conflict, with high-level visits to Russia and Ukraine and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
With the expected return of Donald Trump as US president next month, diplomatic pressures on India regarding its engagement with Russia may ease, as Trump is known for his friendly stance toward Putin and the Russian government.
