Putin's India visit: Defence deals, nuclear projects and major trade push on agenda — here's what to expect

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s forthcoming visit to India is shaping up to be one of the most consequential bilateral engagements of the year, with New Delhi and Moscow preparing a wide agenda spanning defence, nuclear energy, mobility agreements, trade expansion and sensitive geopolitical consultations. Senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Kremlin have indicated that the visit will deliver concrete outcomes, deepen long-standing strategic cooperation, and reinforce both countries’ efforts to build a stable, multipolar world order.

Historic partnership set for a fresh push

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said during a briefing in New Delhi that President Putin’s visit will reaffirm a relationship rooted in trust, mutual respect and a shared understanding of global issues. He underlined that Russia has stood “shoulder to shoulder” with India through crucial phases of nation-building, adding that this continuity remains central to Moscow’s foreign policy. Indian officials echoed this, noting that annual summits have helped sustain momentum even during periods of global turbulence. President Putin first visited India in 2000; this will be the 23rd annual summit.

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Trade, market access and the business forum

Bilateral trade touched USD 63 billion last year, and both sides are now working towards crossing USD 100 billion before 2030. The MEA said addressing the trade imbalance - heavily skewed in Russia’s favour due to energy imports will be a priority.

A major India–Russia Business Forum will be held a day before the summit, with industry bodies such as FICCI coordinating with Russian officials. The focus will be on expanding Indian exports, widening market access and pushing sectoral cooperation in pharmaceuticals, machinery, agriculture, electronics and services.

Russia is also increasing its intake of skilled manpower, and both sides have finalised a mobility agreement for Indian workers across specialised sectors.

Energy, nuclear cooperation and long-term projects

Energy will remain a centrepiece of the discussions. Peskov said Russia continues to supply crude oil to India at competitive prices, describing it as a “mutual benefit”. Indian officials stressed that all energy purchases are commercial decisions made by companies.

On the nuclear front, Russia confirmed ongoing work in India and signalled readiness for more joint projects. Peskov said Russian collaboration has helped create a “sectoral ecosystem” within India’s nuclear industry over the years.

Defence cooperation, S-400 and next-gen platforms

Defence will be one of the most sensitive areas on the agenda. Russian-origin equipment accounts for 36 per cent of India’s defence imports, and discussions are expected on ongoing projects as well as future platforms, including the Su-57 fighter programme. MEA officials said all defence matters of bilateral importance - including those involving legacy platforms, spares and technology cooperation - will be taken up during the summit.

Peskov praised India’s balanced stance on the Ukraine conflict, citing Prime Minister Modi’s repeated assertion that “this is not an era of war”. He said Russia values India’s willingness to engage on difficult issues, contrasting it with the absence of dialogue with Europe.

On China, Peskov said Moscow seeks to deepen cooperation “as far as India allows,” adding that Russia’s relations with India and China are independent tracks.

Connectivity, currency settlement and maritime links

Talks are also expected on the Chennai–Vladivostok maritime corridor, India’s interests in Chabahar port, and the growing shift towards national currency settlements. Officials confirmed that an understanding on rupee–ruble mechanisms is already in place. India is expanding its diplomatic footprint in Russia, with new consulates coming up in Kazan and Yekaterinburg.

Mobility issues, Indian workers and safety concerns

MEA officials urged Indian citizens working abroad - including in Russia - to be cautious about contracts they sign. Most Indians who had inadvertently joined the Russian Army have already been brought back, with the remainder expected soon.

Officials noted that India does not maintain a centralised system to track all citizens employed overseas, and information often emerges through media queries or host-country disclosures.

Counter-terror cooperation and regional challenges

Peskov condemned the recent Delhi blast and reiterated Russia’s support for India’s fight against terrorism. A joint counter-terrorism mechanism between the two countries has been active since 2002.