Overview

• Russian President Vladimir Putin has accepted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit India, with preparations currently underway, though exact dates remain undisclosed.
• This visit marks Putin's first trip to India since the Russia-Ukraine war began in February 2022, highlighting a significant diplomatic milestone.
• The meeting is expected to focus on advancing Russia's 2030 economic roadmap, doubling bilateral trade to $100 billion annually, and enhancing energy, defense, and trade cooperation.
• India and Russia are working on expanding trade routes, including the Chennai-Vladivostok maritime corridor, to bolster bilateral trade, which currently stands at $60 billion annually.
• The visit underscores India's strategic autonomy in maintaining balanced relations with Russia and Ukraine amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.