Russia-India Ties Set to Strengthen as Leaders Plan December Summit in New Delhi

It is not yet decided whether President Putin will visit India for a single day or two days. Prior to his visit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will visit India in November to complete preparations for the event. India and Russia hold annual summits. So far, 22 talks have taken place between the two countries. Last July, PM Modi visited Moscow, while Putin last visited India in 2021. This time, the focus will be on military and technical cooperation between the two countries.

It is believed that India may also purchase additional S-400 air defense missile systems from Russia. India signed a $5 billion deal for five units in 2018, of which three regiments have been delivered, with the remaining two expected by next year. Russia's S-400 air defense system played a key role in thwarting Pakistani air attacks during Operation Sindoor.

Recently, Putin praised PM Modi. The Russian President called Prime Minister Narendra Modi his friend and said that he feels comfortable with him. Putin praised India's nationalist government led by Modi and described PM Modi as a "balanced, wise" and "nation-friendly" leader.

Putin said that Russia-India relations have remained very strong since the days of the Soviet Union, when India was struggling for its independence. He said, "In India, they remember this, they know this, and they value it. We appreciate that India has not forgotten this." He called Prime Minister Narendra Modi his friend and said that he feels comfortable with him. Putin praised India's nationalist government led by Modi and described PM Modi as a "balanced, wise" and "nation-friendly" leader.