During Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, the ongoing war in Ukraine emerged as a key discussion point between him and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi emphasized that India is not neutral in the conflict but firmly stands on the side of peace, a position he said has been consistently maintained, including in earlier discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump. Praising Putin as a visionary, Modi highlighted the mutual understanding of the importance of peace in the current era and reaffirmed that India and Russia would continue to support peaceful initiatives and stand shoulder to shoulder in global affairs.
The two leaders also underscored the resilience of Indo-Russian ties, with Modi noting that India has remained steadfast in its support for Russia despite post-Ukraine war sanctions, and emphasized that friendship, trade, and diplomatic relations between the two countries have strengthened during Putin’s visit and are expected to deepen further. Modi reiterated India’s commitment to peace, stating, “Our focus is always on peace. India is not neutral; our side is the side of peace. We support all efforts for peace and will stand shoulder to shoulder.” Putin reportedly listened attentively and did not contradict the Prime Minister’s remarks.
On the defense and strategic front, the visit saw the signing of the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support (RELOS) agreement, allowing both countries’ armed forces, naval ships, and aircraft to access each other’s logistical facilities for joint exercises, training, humanitarian aid, and disaster relief operations, including fuel, spare parts, and repair support. Discussions also covered additional deliveries of S-400 squadrons, advanced SU-57 stealth fighter jets, and S-500 air defense systems, with reports indicating an agreement to acquire five more S-400 squadrons. Both nations agreed to promote joint production of defense equipment under India’s Make in India initiative, including AK-203 rifles and BrahMos missiles, along with other Russian-supplied components. Despite pressure from the U.S., Putin assured uninterrupted supply of low-cost crude oil to India.