As Putin Visits New Delhi, India Weighs Its ‘Time-Tested’ Defence Ties with Russia Against US Pressures
President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi, his first since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, has highlighted India’s delicate balancing act as it seeks to preserve long standing defence ties with Moscow while managing growing trade tensions with the United States. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally received Putin at Delhi’s airport before hosting him for an evening dinner, underscoring the symbolic importance India places on the relationship.
Analysts say the warm optics mask far more complex strategic calculations beneath the surface. India continues to rely heavily on Russian defence supplies, from legacy platforms to critical spare parts, at a time when global sanctions have made procurement increasingly complicated. Moscow remains a key source of military technology, and Delhi sees value in maintaining diversification rather than becoming dependent on any single partner.
However, India’s engagement with Russia comes as Washington signals potential punitive measures over Delhi’s economic links with Moscow. US officials have expressed concerns about rising bilateral trade, particularly in energy, even as the two sides continue negotiations on a broader trade agreement. Analysts note that India must find a way to safeguard its defence preparedness without jeopardising its expanding economic relationship with the US.
India’s strategic stance has long been characterised by multi alignment rather than alliance commitments. Putin’s visit reinforces that approach, showing that Delhi intends to keep communication channels open with all major powers, even amid geopolitical tension. For India, the challenge lies in meeting its defence needs, maintaining autonomy in foreign policy and avoiding repercussions from its Western partners.
