Putin’s India Visit Highlights Strategic Balancing Act for Modi government
New Delhi – December 4, 2025 – Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to india is underway, presenting the Modi government with a delicate diplomatic challenge as it navigates strengthening ties with Moscow amidst increasing Western pressure related to the ongoing war in Ukraine and sanctions. The visit is expected to yield agreements on labor mobility,defense cooperation,and nuclear energy projects,while also addressing concerns over U.S. sanctions impacting Indian trade.
the trip comes at a critical juncture, with the U.S. increasingly scrutinizing India’s continued economic and military relationship with Russia. Both nations are pushing for progress on a Free trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), even as Indian exporters grapple with 50% tariffs imposed by the U.S.
A key outcome of the visit is anticipated to be the announcement of an India-Russia labour mobility agreement, described as the “centrepiece” of Putin’s trip. This agreement aims to facilitate the movement of Indian skilled and semi-skilled workers to Russia, which is facing a projected labour shortfall of approximately 3.1 million jobs by the end of the decade, especially in construction, technology, and manufacturing.
Defence cooperation remains a central element of the India-Russia partnership. The visit is being closely watched for potential new defence deals, despite previous U.S. warnings of sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act following India’s purchase of the S-400 air defence system. Russia remains a crucial partner for India in technology transfer, an area where other nations have been reluctant to share sensitive technologies. The russian Duma has recently approved the RELOS military logistics pact with India, perhaps paving the way for increased joint military exercises, which previously drew protests from the European Union.
Nuclear power cooperation is also on the agenda. India’s Department of Atomic Energy has reportedly held discussions with Russia’s Rosatom regarding India’s plans for five indigenous small modular reactors, alongside competing bids from France and other EU member states.