Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in India yesterday for a two-day summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, amidst tense geopolitical backdrop and pressure from the US to curb trade ties with Russia. The talks, held at the presidential palace of Rashtrapati Bhavan, took place following a warm welcome on the tarmac, where Modi greeted Putin with a hug.
As part of their discussions, the two leaders agreed that Russia would continue to supply uninterrupted fuel supplies for India's growing economy. This is significant considering India's reliance on Russian oil imports since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and the subsequent sanctions imposed by Western countries.
Putin also stated that many agreements aimed at strengthening Russia-India cooperation were signed during their talks, although the details of these agreements have yet to be released.
The summit comes as tensions between the US and Russia remain high, with Washington pushing for a peace deal in Ukraine. In an interview with NBC, US Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism about reaching a breakthrough in the conflict, but acknowledged that significant progress has been slow.
Meanwhile, India is caught in the middle of this diplomatic tug-of-war, with its relations with both countries being put to the test. The visit highlights New Delhi's strategic balancing act between Washington and Moscow, as it seeks to deepen ties with Russia while maintaining close relationships with the US.
Indian officials had warned that the visit could strain relations with the European Union and the US, which have imposed sanctions on Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine. However, the two leaders are expected to sign several key agreements, including those related to defence deals and energy purchases.
The summit has sparked a flurry of reactions from politicians and analysts, who see the visit as an attempt by Putin to shore up India's support amidst Western pressure. The outcome of the talks remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: India's strategic position in this volatile region will continue to be closely watched by policymakers around the world.
As part of their discussions, the two leaders agreed that Russia would continue to supply uninterrupted fuel supplies for India's growing economy. This is significant considering India's reliance on Russian oil imports since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and the subsequent sanctions imposed by Western countries.
Putin also stated that many agreements aimed at strengthening Russia-India cooperation were signed during their talks, although the details of these agreements have yet to be released.
The summit comes as tensions between the US and Russia remain high, with Washington pushing for a peace deal in Ukraine. In an interview with NBC, US Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism about reaching a breakthrough in the conflict, but acknowledged that significant progress has been slow.
Meanwhile, India is caught in the middle of this diplomatic tug-of-war, with its relations with both countries being put to the test. The visit highlights New Delhi's strategic balancing act between Washington and Moscow, as it seeks to deepen ties with Russia while maintaining close relationships with the US.
Indian officials had warned that the visit could strain relations with the European Union and the US, which have imposed sanctions on Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine. However, the two leaders are expected to sign several key agreements, including those related to defence deals and energy purchases.
The summit has sparked a flurry of reactions from politicians and analysts, who see the visit as an attempt by Putin to shore up India's support amidst Western pressure. The outcome of the talks remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: India's strategic position in this volatile region will continue to be closely watched by policymakers around the world.