The Unbreakable India-Russia Bond, 7 Points

Delhi / Beijing

India–Russia relations in 2025: PM Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin reaffirm strategic partnership at the SCO Summit. Key takeaways include trade, defence, energy security, and India’s push for peace in Ukraine amid rising India–US tensions.

🔗 Beyond Sanctions: The India–Russia Partnership in 2025

1. Unbreakable India–Russia Bond

   • Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed that India and Russia have always walked shoulder to shoulder, even in the toughest times.

   • He highlighted that this cooperation ensures global peace, stability, and prosperity.

2. Modi–Putin Meeting at SCO 2025

   • The leaders met on September 01, 2025, at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China.

   • Talks focused on the India–Russia strategic partnership amid strained India–US relations.

3. Putin’s December Visit to India

   • Modi invited Vladimir Putin for the 23rd Annual India–Russia Summit in December 2025.

   • He said 1.4 billion Indians eagerly await the Russian President’s visit, showcasing the depth of the bond.

4. India–US Trade Tensions

   • The meeting followed Donald Trump’s decision to impose 25% tariffs on Indian exports, targeting India’s Russian oil imports.

   • US officials also criticized India’s purchase of Russian defence equipment and alleged profiteering from energy resales.

5. India’s Defence and Energy Priorities

   • India defended its Russian oil imports as vital for energy security.

   • Procurement of Russian military hardware was justified as a national security necessity.

   • New Delhi stressed that ties with Moscow should not be seen through the prism of a third country.

6. Ukraine Conflict: Call for Peace

   • Modi urged all sides to pursue constructive dialogue and move towards permanent peace in Ukraine.

   • He said, “A path has to be found to end the conflict as soon as possible. This is the call of humanity.”

7. Strengthening Economic & Energy Cooperation

   • Both sides expressed satisfaction with progress in economic, financial, and energy sectors.

   • India and Russia agreed to deepen bilateral trade and expand the special and privileged strategic partnership.