Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi on December 4–5, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in international diplomacy and raises pressing questions about India’s foreign policy direction. As one of Moscow’s most important economic, military, and technological partners, India faces the challenge of balancing its national interests with broader global responsibilities.

The 23rd Indo‑Russian Summit is expected to advance cooperation in defence, trade, energy, and security, even as delays in S‑400 deliveries and setbacks in aircraft upgrades highlight concerns about India’s operational readiness.

New Delhi’s cautious tone ahead of the meeting reflects a deliberate strategy of restraint, and deeper engagement with a state under wide international sanctions risks undermining global norms and intensifying criticism of opportunistic diplomacy. For India, greater transparency and a more substantial commitment to multilateral rules would not only safeguard its credibility but also contribute to regional stability and peace.

Key diplomatic indicators reveal a complex relationship between Washington and Moscow, particularly in India’s nuanced approach. Political analysts indicate that New Delhi is intentionally minimizing the significance of its diplomatic engagement with Russia to align more closely with U.S. expectations, as India is seen as a strategic counterbalance to China, which has strong ties with Moscow. Experts suggest that India is concealing specific defense discussions under American pressure. At the same time, Russia is poised to address sensitive matters, such as the perceived U.S. influence on the cancellation of Indian oil deals.

Since the 2025 India-Pakistan standoff, Prime Minister Modi has notably avoided direct interactions with Donald Trump.........

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