Washington, USA: Preparations are underway for a key visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to India in early 2025, following an invitation extended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as confirmed by Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov.

The visit aligns with the annual summit tradition observed by the two leaders. Ushakov stated, “Our leaders have agreed to meet once a year, and it is now our turn.” He further noted that Russia has received PM Modi's invitation and intends to respond positively.

“We will finalize tentative dates early next year,” Ushakov added, emphasizing the robust ties between India and Russia, even amidst ongoing global geopolitical challenges.

Putin’s upcoming visit will prioritize advancing collaboration in key sectors, including defence, energy, and trade. The last such visit occurred on December 6, 2021, during the 21st India-Russia Annual Summit in New Delhi.

This year, PM Modi visited Russia twice, participating in the 22nd Russia-India Summit in July and the BRICS Summit in Kazan in October. During these meetings, PM Modi reiterated India’s stance on resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict through peaceful means.

“In our discussions regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, I have always emphasized that disputes must be resolved peacefully. India fully supports efforts to restore stability and peace at the earliest,” PM Modi stated during his bilateral engagement with Putin. He also expressed India’s readiness to offer humanitarian assistance where needed, underlining a priority on humanity in such efforts.

The announcement of Putin’s visit comes as global attention remains focused on the implications of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The trip is expected to reaffirm the strong partnership between New Delhi and Moscow as both nations face pressures from Western powers.

India’s non-alignment with the International Criminal Court (ICC) ensures that the ICC’s warrant against Putin poses no barrier to his visit. As a non-signatory to the Rome Statute, India is not obligated to enforce the ICC’s rulings, providing a neutral platform for bilateral discussions.

Putin has significantly curtailed his international travel in light of the ICC warrant, which requires member nations to act on arrest orders. However, India’s position allows for uninterrupted diplomatic engagement between the two countries.

During the visit, discussions are likely to focus on strengthening partnerships in defence, energy, and trade, underscoring the strategic importance of India-Russia relations. With global economic and political challenges intensifying, the visit aims to fortify the enduring ties between the two nations and explore opportunities for deeper cooperation.