Vladimir Putin to visit India soon, Russia minister confirms 'preparations underway'

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India, with preparations currently underway, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed. Speaking to Russian news agency TASS, Lavrov stated that Putin had accepted an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and arrangements for the visit were in progress.

“President Vladimir Putin has accepted an invitation to visit from the Indian head of government. A visit by the Russian head of state to the Republic of India is currently being prepared,” Lavrov announced.

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The visit comes amid deepening India-Russia ties, particularly in the areas of defense, trade, and energy cooperation. Lavrov also noted that PM Modi made Russia his first foreign visit after securing a third term in office, signaling the significance of the bilateral relationship. “Now it’s our turn,” the Russian diplomat remarked.

In 2023, Modi traveled to Russia twice—first in July to reinforce agreements under the 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership, and again in October to attend the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan. Putin’s upcoming visit is expected to further strengthen strategic cooperation between the two nations. While official dates have yet to be announced, discussions on key regional and global issues are likely to be on the agenda.

Modi-Putin bond amid geopolitical tensions

The bond between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin has remained steady despite global turbulence. India and Russia share a long-standing strategic partnership, with defense, energy, and trade forming key pillars of their relationship. While Western nations have distanced themselves from Moscow over the Ukraine war, New Delhi has maintained a balanced stance—purchasing Russian oil at discounted rates while advocating for dialogue and diplomacy.

Modi and Putin’s personal rapport has been evident in their frequent meetings and warm public interactions. Even as India strengthens its ties with the West, including the US and European allies, it has continued to engage with Russia on crucial matters. With Putin’s upcoming visit, both leaders are expected to discuss regional security, economic cooperation, and the evolving global order, reaffirming their commitment to a multipolar world.

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Notably, PM Modi is expected to visit Russia in May to attend the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, held at Moscow’s Red Square, Russian news agency TASS has reported. The visit is said to have a “high probability,” with discussions underway regarding the participation of an Indian armed forces contingent in the parade.

According to a military source cited by TASS, plans are being explored for an Indian ceremonial unit to take part in the prestigious May 9 parade. If confirmed, the personnel would need to arrive in Russia at least a month in advance for rehearsals. The logistical aspects of their travel and participation are currently being worked out, the source added.

The Victory Day celebrations commemorate the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II and have historically seen participation from global leaders. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov recently stated that several invited nations have already confirmed their attendance at the Moscow event.

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Last year in July, PM Modi visited Russia at President Vladimir Putin’s invitation for the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit, reinforcing the strong ties between the two nations. His potential visit to Moscow this May is expected to further strengthen diplomatic and strategic relations between India and Russia.

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• Vladimir Putin
• Russia
• Narendra Modi