New Delhi: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India before the end of 2025. Speaking on Thursday, Doval said the visit dates are nearly finalised and highlighted the importance of long-standing ties between the two nations.
“We are very pleased with the upcoming visit of President Putin to India,” Doval stated. “The schedule is almost locked in. This reflects the depth of our strategic and historical relationship with Russia,” he added.
The announcement comes amid rising global trade tensions, particularly following U.S. actions under Donald Trump’s administration. The United States recently imposed additional tariffs on Indian goods in response to New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian oil. Trump has also warned of potential secondary sanctions, hinting at similar measures against China.
India-Russia Relations Remain Strong Despite Global Pressures
Russia, defending India’s energy trade decisions, expressed its disapproval of efforts to restrict sovereign nations from choosing their trading partners. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated that it is “illegitimate” to pressure countries into breaking economic ties.
“Sovereign states have the right to determine their own economic policies,” Peskov said, in direct response to growing Western pressure on nations continuing to trade with Moscow.
India and China remain key importers of Russian oil, even as Washington tightens sanctions and increases tariffs as part of its broader campaign against Moscow.
Trump and Putin May Meet Next Week
As geopolitical developments unfold, Trump and Putin are expected to hold a meeting in the coming days. With tensions over the Russia-Ukraine conflict continuing, their interaction could prove critical. Trump’s trade moves are seen as both a strategy to isolate Russia and a way to accelerate diplomatic negotiations to end the war.
Meanwhile, India is preparing for President Putin’s high-profile visit, which is set to reinforce the depth of the India-Russia partnership across defense, energy, and economic sectors.
