Russia’s Vladimir Putin and India’s Narendra Modi kicked off summit talks in New Delhi on Friday — and India didn’t hold back on the warm welcome.
Red carpet, hugs on the tarmac, even a 21-gun salute. But beneath the ceremony lies a complicated story.
Putin is in India for the first time in four years, hoping to boost trade as Western sanctions keep squeezing Moscow.
India, meanwhile, is trying to balance two worlds: long-standing ties with Russia and ongoing negotiations with the US to roll back Trump-era tariffs.
India, meanwhile, is trying to balance two worlds. Tough spot? Absolutely.
India Balances Alliances
On Ukraine, Modi was clear: “India is not neutral. India has a position, and that position is for peace.”
Putin thanked him, saying they’ve been discussing steps — even with the US — toward a possible settlement. Big claims, bigger stakes.
Trade is another pillar. Russia wants to ramp up imports of Indian goods and push the partnership toward a $100 billion target by 2030.
Deals are expected soon, including a joint urea plant in Russia.
Defence cooperation remains strong, too — Moscow even offered support for India’s goal of becoming self-reliant in arms production.
Still, the bigger question hangs in the air: how long can India walk this tightrope between Washington and Moscow?
As one analyst put it, “India faces a conundrum.” No kidding.
