Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to travel to India in December for the annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Kremlin reports that preparations are already well underway.
Moscow / New Delhi, October 2, 2025 — Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India in December for the annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Kremlin confirmed on Thursday. Officials say planning is in progress.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters:
“Yes, we have finalized the timeframe for the President’s India visit. It will happen before the New Year.” He added, “The preparations for the visit are in full swing.”
Although Peskov did not provide specific dates, multiple reports suggest the summit may take place around December 5 to 6, 2025.
Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov publicly stated that discussions are ongoing to finalize the trip to New Delhi. A Russian embassy official in India mentioned earlier that Putin and Modi are likely to meet before the end of 2025, but the exact date has not been set.
Context & Key Significance
1. Tradition of India-Russia Annual Summit
This visit is part of the long-standing annual summit format between India and Russia. This mechanism allows the two nations to review their strategic, economic, and defense cooperation.
2. Strategic & Geopolitical Overtones
The timing and nature of this summit are particularly important given changing global circumstances. These include Western sanctions on Russia, the evolving India-US relationship, and India’s energy partnerships.
A significant issue is the increase in U.S. tariffs on Indian exports, which is reportedly related to India’s ongoing purchase of Russian oil. These economic pressures could influence the summit’s agenda and tone.
3. Diplomatic Subplots & Logistical Preparations
Officials are expected to hold discussions ahead of the visit. For example, Putin and Modi may meet at the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation) summit in China to finalize the visit details.
Russia has already invited India’s Prime Minister to visit Russia, and that invitation has been accepted.
As of August, Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov confirmed plans for Putin’s December trip, noting that consultations with Delhi would increase.
In Indian diplomacy, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval mentioned that the dates for the visit are “almost” finalized.
