Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India later this year, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval confirmed during his visit to Moscow. While exact dates remain unannounced, Russian news agency Interfax suggested the trip may happen soon. Doval expressed enthusiasm, calling the relationship between the two countries historic and deeply valued.
“We’ve maintained a strong partnership, and frequent high-level exchanges have played a key role. We’re thrilled to hear about President Putin’s visit, and the dates are nearly confirmed,” Doval said.
Though the Kremlin has not officially commented, the timing of the visit is significant. Tensions between New Delhi and Washington have escalated, with U.S. President Donald Trump accusing India of supporting Moscow’s war in Ukraine by continuing to buy Russian oil.
On Wednesday, Trump signed a fresh executive order slapping a 25 percent tariff on Indian goods, citing India’s ongoing energy imports from Russia. He also threatened additional penalties for buyers of Russian oil if Moscow does not halt its military operations by Friday.
India and Russia have shared close economic and diplomatic ties since the Soviet era. Their trade relationship has grown rapidly, with India becoming one of Russia’s top oil importers. By mid-2023, India was purchasing around 2 million barrels daily, nearly 45 percent of its total crude imports.
Putin’s upcoming visit could reaffirm the strength of Indo-Russian cooperation and act as a counterweight to mounting U.S. pressure.