Protecting Russia’s relationship with India from the pressure of the United States administration is a top priority for Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to a leading analyst in Moscow. Mr. Putin is set to arrive in Delhi on Thursday (December 4, 2025) for his first state visit to India since the beginning of the Ukraine conflict.
Why is there no peace in Ukraine? | Explained
Responding to The Hindu’s queries, Nikolai Plotnikov, Head of the Center for Scientific and Analytical Information at the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, described Indian foreign policy as “pragmatist”. The surge in India’s purchases of Russian energy, prompted by the conflict in Ukraine, has given India a “good profit” over the previous three years, he said.
“Our countries are united by many years of friendship and strategic cooperation. Both bilateral relations and collaboration within international organisations are steadily developing. The agenda of the New Delhi talks is driven primarily by the need to adapt to strong external pressure from the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump,” Mr. Plotnikov said.
Watch: Former BrahMos Chief calls for stronger India-Russia defence ties
