Modi and putin Hold Talks in Delhi, Focus on Military Cooperation and Tourism
New Delhi, December 4, 2025 – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and russian President Vladimir Putin met in Delhi today for summit talks, addressing topics including sanctions on Russian oil and deepening bilateral ties. While no major defence announcements emerged from the visit, discussions centered on military-technical cooperation, potential arms upgrades, and increased economic collaboration.
Prior to the summit, Putin highlighted the “very trusting relationship” between the two nations regarding military cooperation. India had hoped to secure commitments for the expedited delivery of two additional S-400 surface-to-air missile systems, following the receipt of three under a $5.4bn deal signed in 2018. Talks also anticipated exploring upgrades to India’s Su-30MKI fighter jets and accelerating deliveries of critical military hardware.
Ultimately, the meeting yielded a joint statement outlining plans to encourage joint manufacturing of spare parts and components for Russian-origin arms and defence equipment in India, facilitated by technology transfer and joint ventures. A pact ratified by Russia’s State Duma in February to enhance military cooperation – encompassing exercises, port calls, disaster relief, and logistics support – was also reaffirmed.
Beyond defence, Modi announced India will soon begin issuing free electronic visas for Russian tourists and groups. The two countries are also working towards an agreement regarding the safety and regulation of Indian migrant workers in Russia.
According to Putin’s foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov, a key component of the visit was an “informal dinner” between the two leaders. Ushakov emphasized the importance of such direct engagement, stating, “during such confidential face-to-face contacts, the most urgent, most sensitive and most important issues of both bilateral relations and the international situation are discussed.” He added, “Politics is made at these kind of meetings.”
The leaders briefly discussed the recent sanctions imposed on Russian oil,but details of that conversation were not disclosed.
