• Source:JND
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Russia has openly lauded India for maintaining what it described as a “very friendly stand” towards Moscow, as President Vladimir Putin arrives in New Delhi on December 4–5 for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. This visit marks a pivotal moment for strengthening defence, energy, and strategic cooperation amid a rapidly changing global order.

Putin’s delegation includes top officials from the defence ministry, banking sector, and major energy giants such as Rosneft and Gazprom Neft, underscoring the wide agenda expected during the two-day summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Russia Aware Of India’s Trade Deficit Concerns

Addressing Indian journalists during a virtual press briefing ahead of Putin’s arrival, Peskov said Moscow is fully aware of New Delhi’s concerns over the widening trade imbalance driven largely by India’s soaring imports of discounted Russian crude.“We understand India’s concerns about the trade deficit, and we are working with our Indian partners to fix this problem,” he said. Bilateral trade crossed USD 70 billion last year, but India’s deficit accounts for the majority of that figure. Both countries aim to raise total trade to USD 100 billion, but with more balanced flows.

 Further, in a pointed criticism of the US, Peskov said the global trading system must evolve so that the Dollar-dominated payment infrastructure is not used as a political tool.

Energy Security, Defence Ties To Dominate Talks

Energy cooperation remains a central pillar of the partnership. Russia continues to be one of India’s largest oil suppliers despite secondary US sanctions targeting ships, insurers and traders moving Russian oil. Crude imports from Russia previously stood at under 2 per cent of India’s oil basket but surged to nearly 35–38 per cent over the past year.

On the future of oil purchases, Peskov said Moscow will continue ensuring uninterrupted supply, “We’re looking forward to possibilities, despite everything, to ensure our right to sell oil and the right of those who want to buy our oil. We are creating the necessary environment to guarantee these rights.”

On the other hand, defence cooperation, a traditional pillar of the India-Russia relationship, will be a key focus as New Delhi seeks clarity on S-400 delivery timelines, technology transfers, and future joint manufacturing. Speaking about Russia’s fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jet, Peskov reiterated its capabilities, “It is the best plane in the world. That’s not an exaggeration. The issue will be on the agenda of President Putin’s visit. But let’s not discuss details, we have many competitors.”

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Putin’s New Delhi visit comes during heightened global turbulence, Western sanctions pressure, and shifting geopolitical alignments. Yet the Kremlin maintains that the India-Russia partnership remains rooted in historical trust, strategic autonomy, and long-term mutual interests.

ALSO READ: Putin’s India Visit: S-400 Delays, Su-57 Jets, Cheap Russian Oil; Here's What At Stake Amid US Tariff Pressure

With trade imbalance correction, defence modernisation, oil supply stability, and sanctions-proof payment mechanisms all on the table, the summit is expected to reaffirm that, despite global headwinds, the India-Russia relationship continues to operate on a uniquely steady foundation.

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