Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Moscow on 8 and 9 July. This will be his first trip to Russia since it invaded Ukraine on 24 February, 2022. This visit highlights India’s strong and longstanding relationship with Russia, which is crucial for India’s military and energy needs, especially given tensions with China. Russian President Vladimir Putin invited Modi for discussions on global and regional issues, amidst Western sanctions on Russia and its closer ties with China. Despite changes in global politics, India’s historical partnership with Russia, dating back to the Cold War, remains steadfast.
Modi’s upcoming trip to Moscow contrasts with his non-attendance at the recent SCO summit, where Chinese and Russian leaders bolstered their ties amid regional security concerns. India prioritizes bilateral engagements over SCO’s collective approach to pursue its own goals. Despite abstaining from UN votes against Russia and refraining from publicly criticizing the Ukrainian conflict, India navigates carefully between its ties with Moscow and its alliances with Western countries like the US.
Putin’s recent diplomatic activities, like meetings with Kim Jong Un and leading BRICS, show Russia’s efforts to counter Western isolation. Modi’s visit coincides with India’s closer ties with the US, demonstrated by his visit to Washington and membership in the Quad alliance. These relationships are strengthened by mutual concerns about China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific, contrasting with Russia’s alignment with China.
Modi’s trip to Moscow shows India’s careful global diplomacy, balancing old ties with Russia and new alliances with the US and other Quad countries. India adapts to changing geopolitics and global tensions, aiming for strategic benefits while staying flexible in diplomacy.