India–Russia Relations Enter a Renewed Phase of Trust, Culture, and Strategic Convergence

Putin views his India visit as a powerful reaffirmation of a trusted, historic partnership. He praises India’s rise as “almost a miracle,” calls Modi “a reliable person… India got lucky,” and celebrates cultural bonds “heart to heart.” Confident in new opportunities across defence, energy, and trade, he sees the relationship entering a fresh era of depth, wisdom, and strategic stability.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s two-day state visit to India for the 23rd Annual India–Russia Summit marks a defining moment in the long, historic, and evolving partnership between the two nations. Arriving in New Delhi on Thursday evening—his first visit in over four years and the first since the Ukraine conflict began—Putin was warmly received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Palam airport. The two leaders, symbolising the depth of their personal camaraderie, drove together from the Palam Technical Area, setting the tone for a visit rich in symbolism, strategic intent, and cultural warmth.

One of the highlights of their private dinner was Prime Minister Modi presenting Putin with a Russian translation of the Bhagavad Gita, saying that its teachings inspire billions. This gesture reflected the cultural and civilizational bridge between the two countries—something Putin later acknowledged with deep admiration.

A Summit of Substance

Putin’s schedule in India is packed with substantive diplomatic engagements. After the private dinner with PM Modi, the Russian President is set to attend a ceremonial reception hosted by President Droupadi Murmu, visit Rajghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi, and then hold comprehensive summit discussions at Hyderabad House. These talks are expected to focus on defence, trade, energy cooperation, potential updates on Su‑57 fighter jet discussions, and broader geopolitical issues including Ukraine peace efforts.

Following the summit and a working lunch, both leaders will issue press statements before Putin meets Indian business leaders and attends a state banquet at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Describing the future of bilateral collaboration, Putin told ANI: "We are expecting new perspectives and new relations with the business and with education and with manpower as well… we think that we can envelope our new projects and new perspectives."

Putin’s Admiration for India and Modi

In multiple interviews ahead of and during his visit, President Putin spoke with warmth, respect, and admiration for India’s trajectory, culture, and leadership. Calling India’s post‑Independence rise “almost a miracle”, he noted the remarkable improvement in quality of life, including the doubling of life expectancy.

In an exclusive India Today interview, he praised Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in unusually candid terms. "He is not someone who gives in to pressure," Putin said when asked whether the US was arm‑twisting India with tariffs. He added: "We have very trustworthy and friendly relations. He is a very reliable person… India got lucky. He lives and breathes India."

Calling Modi “a person of integrity”, Putin said their discussions are enjoyable and natural—“like humans”. He also applauded India’s consistent stability across defence, energy, and cultural ties.

Culture as a Foundation of Friendship

For Putin, the India–Russia bond is not merely strategic—it is emotional and civilizational. "Indian culture is like a fairytale," he said, recalling how Indian films and music have been beloved in Russia since the USSR era. He emphasised that the connection between the two peoples is “heart to heart” and assured that Russia will continue nurturing this cultural bond.

Geopolitics, Global Economy, and Energy Security

Putin did not shy away from commenting on global economic shifts, noting: "Most of Europe is staring at a recession… I can hardly understand why countries of the G7 call themselves G7."Pointing to India’s economic rise, he noted its global importance in purchasing power—surpassing several G7 countries.

He also called out Western double standards: "If the US can buy nuclear fuel from Russia, why not India?" and affirmed readiness to discuss all such matters openly, including with President Trump.

Energy cooperation, a pillar of India–Russia relations, remains robust. Putin emphasised that despite fluctuations, the fundamentals of the partnership are stable: "The Russian oil industry considers its Indian counterparts to be very reliable." He reiterated that bilateral energy ties remain unaffected by geopolitical conditions, fleeting political swings, or the tragic events in Ukraine.

Non‑Interference and Balanced Diplomacy

A recurring theme in Putin’s messaging was Russia’s respect for India’s independent foreign policy and Russia’s own commitment to not using bilateral ties against any third party. "India–Russia ties never used to harm others," he said, stressing that neither country has ever used its partnership to act against anyone—even under pressure.

Regarding India–China relations, Putin was unequivocal: "India and China are our closest friends… we don’t consider ourselves entitled to interfere. This is a bilateral relationship." He expressed confidence that PM Modi and President Xi Jinping are committed to calming tensions: "Both PM Modi and President Xi Jinping see that some specific tension is rising, and they both try to find solutions… the key reason why they would succeed would be their wisdom."

A Relationship Built on Trust and Forward Momentum

Putin’s visit comes at a time when global geopolitics is complex and shifting rapidly. Yet, what stands out in the India–Russia relationship is the clarity, trust, and consistency that both nations continue to uphold. Whether in defence, energy, trade, culture, or multilateral platforms like BRICS and G20, the partnership is grounded in mutual respect and long-term strategic thinking.

From PM Modi’s symbolic gift of the Bhagavad Gita in Russian to Putin’s heartfelt praise for India’s culture and leadership, this visit reflects a deep and enduring connection—one that is evolving with time, yet firmly rooted in decades of friendship.

As Putin himself put it, the future of India–Russia cooperation holds “many opportunities” and is still “at the very beginning of the way.” The renewed momentum generated during this summit signals that both nations are prepared to shape that future together—confidently, constructively, and with shared purpose.