Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India soon, according to the country’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Speaking from Moscow, Doval did not confirm the exact dates, but Russian news agency Interfax reported that the visit is likely to take place towards the end of this year.
“Russia and India share a long-standing special relationship, which we deeply value,” Doval said. “Recent high-level engagements have played a significant role in strengthening our ties. President Putin’s visit is almost finalized.” However, Moscow has yet to make any official announcement regarding the trip.
News of the possible visit comes at a time of heightened tensions between New Delhi and Washington over India’s trade with Russia. U.S. President Donald Trump has accused India of aiding Moscow’s war in Ukraine by continuing to purchase Russian energy. In response, he has imposed an additional 25% tariff on imports from India.
Trump has also warned that a second round of tariffs will be imposed on Russian oil buyers unless steps are taken to halt the war in Ukraine by Friday.
Since the start of the Ukraine conflict nearly four years ago, India has become one of Russia’s largest oil importers. By May 2023, the country was purchasing more than two million barrels of crude oil per day — accounting for roughly 45% of its total imports.