Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in India for a two-day visit, highlighting a partnership that has persisted for nearly eight decades despite various geopolitical challenges. This visit, his first since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, coincides with the 23rd India-Russia annual summit in New Delhi, where both nations aim to strengthen their officially designated 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' established in 2010.

Ahead of the summit, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized the necessity of safeguarding the India-Russia bilateral relationship and trade, particularly as India faces U.S. tariffs related to its purchase of Russian oil. Russia is currently navigating a complex landscape of Western sanctions imposed due to its actions in Ukraine. Peskov noted that discussions are ongoing regarding alternative payment methods to circumvent these sanctions.

The agenda for the summit includes discussions on labor migration, as an increasing number of Indians seek employment opportunities in Russia. Additionally, defense agreements are expected to be a focal point, with Russia supplying India with advanced military technology, including S-400 anti-aircraft systems and Sukhoi-57 fighter jets. India has emerged as the largest global purchaser of Russian arms, with Russia now accounting for over 35% of India's crude oil imports, a significant increase from nearly 2% prior to the Ukraine conflict.

Despite U.S. measures aimed at curtailing business with Russian oil producers, experts suggest that the India-Russia relationship has demonstrated resilience against Western pressures, including tariffs imposed during the Trump administration. Analysts indicate that Putin's visit serves as a signal to the West that Russia remains an active player in global affairs. India views its relationship with Russia as strategically vital, allowing it to balance its interactions with both Western nations and China.

Historically, the ties between India and Russia were established shortly after India's independence in 1947, with the Soviet Union providing support for India's industrial development and diplomatic backing in regional conflicts. This partnership has evolved over decades, surviving the end of the Cold War and adapting to contemporary geopolitical dynamics.

As the global power landscape shifts, both India and Russia are pursuing 'strategic autonomy,' seeking to navigate their foreign policies independently of U.S. influence. The ongoing collaboration reflects a mutual interest in maintaining strong defense and energy ties, even as India engages in negotiations with the U.S. regarding trade and defense cooperation. The complexities of these relationships underscore the challenges of balancing national interests in a multipolar world.