Harshad Patel
The Kremlin announced on Tuesday that it is preparing for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Russia, although no specific date has been provided.
This visit will mark Modi’s first trip to Russia since Moscow began its extensive military offensive in Ukraine over two years ago, which has posed challenges to the traditionally strong relations between Moscow and New Delhi.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed the preparations, indicating that more details would be disclosed at an appropriate time. Reports in Indian and Russian media had suggested that Modi might visit Moscow in early July, although this remains unconfirmed.
The context of Modi’s visit includes navigating the strained ties due to Russia’s actions in Ukraine and seeking diplomatic and economic collaboration.
During a meeting in September 2022 at a summit in Uzbekistan, Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged Modi’s concerns about the Ukraine conflict. Modi had expressed his desire for a swift resolution to the conflict, highlighting India’s nuanced position on the matter. This sentiment underscores the complexities of India’s diplomatic stance amid the ongoing war.
India has maintained a cautious approach to the Ukraine crisis, which is evident in its reluctance to fully endorse either side.
Earlier this year, India urged Russia to release Indian citizens involved in “support jobs” with the Russian army following reports that some were coerced into fighting in Ukraine. Additionally, India refrained from signing a joint communique at a recent peace summit in Switzerland, which called for respecting Ukraine’s territorial integrity in any peace agreement.
Despite these tensions, economic ties between India and Russia have strengthened, particularly through India’s increased purchases of Russian oil. This has provided Russia with a crucial market after being cut off from Western economies.
Modi, who was recently re-elected for a third term, last visited Russia in September 2019 for the India-Russia annual summit in Vladivostok, reflecting the ongoing importance of the bilateral relationship.
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