Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke on August 8, 2025, in what officials described as a warm and detailed conversation. Modi thanked Putin for updating him on the Ukraine situation and both leaders agreed to push forward their “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.” Modi also invited Putin to India for the 23rd Annual Summit — the first since 2021 — with the date said to be “almost finalized,” though not yet officially announced.
Strategic Engagement in Moscow
The call came right after National Security Adviser Ajit Doval’s visit to Moscow. Where he met Putin and senior Russian defence officials to discuss energy cooperation and defence projects. The timing was significant, arriving just as U.S. President Donald Trump announced a sharp hike in tariffs on Indian goods to 50%, citing India’s continued imports of Russian crude. Russian oil now accounts for more than a third of India’s total crude imports, a move that New Delhi insists is driven by energy security and market economics.
Tariffs as Leverage
Trump’s decision doubles the earlier tariff rate on Indian exports and marks the steepest duty imposed on any of Washington’s major trade partners in recent years. It’s also a direct signal of U.S. displeasure over India’s refusal to curb Russian energy purchases. The increased duty, effective later this month, is expected to dent Indian exporters across sectors while reigniting the debate over sanctions, sovereignty, and strategic autonomy.
India Holds Its Ground
India has made it clear that it will not alter its energy sourcing under external pressure. Officials maintain that decisions on imports are guided by national interest and the need to provide affordable energy to 1.4 billion citizens. New Delhi has also pointed out that several other countries continue to buy Russian oil without facing equivalent trade restrictions.
Why Putin’s Visit Matters
Putin’s trip — whether it happens this month or towards the end of the year — could be a defining moment. Beyond energy and trade, it will set the tone for defence cooperation, technology links, and the political signalling of India’s independent foreign policy. With global supply chains under strain and trade wars escalating, both countries see value in reaffirming ties that can withstand shifting geopolitical winds.
