New Delhi | December 5, 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s two-day state visit to India has set the stage for a packed round of talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where both leaders are expected to push forward a long-term economic roadmap that will guide India-Russia cooperation until 2030. The visit comes at a time when global tensions, shifting oil trade patterns, and new US tariffs on India have raised fresh questions about how both countries plan to balance global pressure with their long-standing partnership.

Putin, who arrived in Delhi on Thursday evening, received a rare personal welcome from Prime Minister Modi at the airport, signalling the warmth between the two leaders. The two then met for a private dinner at the Prime Minister’s residence, where initial discussions are believed to have touched on trade, defence and the global political climate. Modi also gifted Putin a Russian translation of the Bhagavad Gita, calling the text a source of inspiration for millions.

This is Putin’s first India visit since the Ukraine war began in 2022, making the outcomes of this trip particularly significant. The timing is sensitive, as the US has imposed a 25% penalty tariff on India due to Russian oil purchases, pushing New Delhi to reduce its imports. While this has affected earlier goals of reaching USD 100 billion in trade, both sides are now focusing on creating a more balanced trading relationship. India wants higher access for its exports—especially fruits, vegetables, pharmaceuticals and other goods—while also looking to import more fertiliser and strengthen cooperation in that sector.

During the official meetings scheduled for Friday, Putin will receive a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan before visiting Rajghat. This will be followed by bilateral talks at Hyderabad House, where both leaders are expected to discuss issues ranging from defence deals to civil nuclear energy and labour mobility. Later, they will jointly address the India-Russia business forum at Bharat Mandapam.

Defence is set to be a key pillar of the discussions, with talks covering ongoing projects like the S-400 air defence system, the Sukhoi-57 fighter aircraft and new areas of defence cooperation. Progress is also expected on civilian nuclear projects, including Russia’s small modular reactors, and on simplifying travel between the two countries, with India pushing for visa-free entry for its citizens.

One of the most watched topics is the proposed free trade agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union. Negotiations have recently picked up pace, and officials believe this visit could give the talks a major push. Both sides are also exploring new areas of collaboration, including joint shipbuilding for Arctic vessels, an idea highlighted by Russian First Deputy PM Denis Manturov.

Putin is also expected to attend the launch of the RT television channel in India, meet President Droupadi Murmu, and participate in a state banquet held in his honour. A joint statement is likely to be signed, detailing the 2030 strategy and agreements across multiple sectors like industry, technology, mining, healthcare, space cooperation and labour migration.

Both leaders will also review their positions on global platforms such as the UN, SCO, G20 and BRICS. India is set to host the BRICS Summit in 2026 and will formally invite Putin to attend.

As the world watches closely, the visit is expected to produce decisions that will shape the next phase of India-Russia relations—balancing geopolitical realities with long-term strategic cooperation.

 Modi–Putin Meet in Delhi Expected to Shape Major India-Russia Roadmap for 2030, With Big Moves on Trade, Defence, Travel and Arctic Projects

India and Russia are back in the spotlight as PM Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin meet in Delhi to shape a long-term plan for cooperation till 2030. Putin’s two-day state visit comes with big expectations, not just because it’s his first trip to India since the Ukraine war began, but also because the global situation has become far more complicated. With new US tariffs on India for buying Russian oil and pressure from Europe to push Russia toward ending the war, this meeting carries weight far beyond the usual diplomatic routine.

Putin’s arrival in Delhi on Thursday set the tone, with PM Modi personally receiving him at the airport—a rare gesture that signaled how important this visit is for both sides. The two leaders later held a private dinner at Modi’s residence, where major topics like trade, defence and global tensions were discussed informally. Modi also gifted Putin a Russian translation of the Bhagavad Gita, calling it a source of inspiration.

The main talks focus on a big 2030 roadmap that aims to shape everything from trade and defence to nuclear energy, labour mobility and even Arctic shipbuilding. India wants to fix the huge trade imbalance and increase its exports to Russia, while also boosting imports of fertiliser and working on smoother travel rules, including the possibility of visa-free entry for Indian tourists.

Defence ties remain important, with ongoing discussions on the S-400 system, Sukhoi-57 jets and new nuclear projects. Both countries are also pushing forward on a possible free trade deal with the Eurasian Economic Union, which could open major market access in the coming years.

Putin’s schedule includes a ceremonial welcome, a visit to Rajghat, talks at Hyderabad House, a business forum address, and a state banquet. A joint statement is expected at the end of the trip, laying out several agreements and marking a new chapter in India-Russia ties.