Putin to discuss oil imports and other issues with Modi in India

NEW DELHI Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India this week for high-level discussions aimed at strengthening economic, defense, and energy partnerships. The visit also tests Indias diplomatic balancing act between Moscow and Washington amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Putin will arrive on Thursday for a state visit and meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday. Officials from both countries have indicated that the leaders will review progress in bilateral relations, explore areas of mutual interest, and sign various governmental and business agreements.

Energy and Trade Relations Under Scrutiny

India has continued purchasing Russian oil at discounted rates despite U.S. warnings that these imports help sustain Russias finances for the war in Ukraine. Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a cumulative 50% tariff on Indian goods in retaliation. Indian authorities have defended the imports as necessary for meeting the energy demands of its 1.4 billion population.

Putin previously visited India in 2021. Modi traveled to Moscow last year, and the two leaders also met briefly during a Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in China last September.

Diplomatic Context

The summit comes as the U.S. renews its efforts for a Ukraine peace plan, seeking cooperation from key international partners. Trumps proposed peace plan faced criticism for favoring Russia, prompting revisions following discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian officials in Geneva.

Modi has avoided directly condemning Russia for the conflict while advocating for a peaceful resolution. Experts suggest India prefers a low-profile diplomatic approach to maintain favorable ties with both Russia and the United States, though behind-the-scenes efforts to influence outcomes are possible.

Economic Cooperation in Focus

Indian officials involved in summit preparations said discussions will emphasize economic collaboration, trade facilitation, maritime cooperation, healthcare, and media exchanges. India aims to expand exports of pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and textiles to Russia and seeks the removal of non-tariff barriers. Long-term fertilizer supply agreements and structured migration arrangements for skilled Indian workers in Russia are also on the agenda.

U.S. Pressure on Oil Purchases

The United States has urged India to halt purchases of discounted Russian oil, arguing that it indirectly supports Russias war efforts. India has maintained that it complies with international sanctions and prioritizes national energy security. New U.S. sanctions on Russian oil companies complicate matters, but India plans to avoid sanctioned firms while exploring alternative sources.

Energy cooperation will also include Indian investments in Russias Far East and expanded civil nuclear collaboration. The Kudankulam nuclear plant in Tamil Nadu, built with Russian assistance, remains a key project, with discussions ongoing about local equipment production and joint ventures in third countries.

Defense and Security Collaboration

India is expected to press for timely delivery of additional S-400 missile systems, after receiving three units under a 2018 deal worth $5.4 billion, with delays attributed to Ukraine war-related supply chain disruptions. Talks may also cover potential procurement of additional or upgraded systems.

Other defense discussions are likely to focus on upgrading Indian Su-30MKI fighter jets, accelerating critical military hardware deliveries, enhancing joint exercises, and improving disaster relief coordination. Despite diversifying its military suppliers, Russia remains Indias largest defense provider. Moscow is also interested in selling Su-57 stealth fighters, although India continues to evaluate other options.

Author: Sophia Brooks