Putin to visit India on December 4 for first trip since start of Ukraine war

Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to travel to New Delhi on December 4 and 5 for a two-day state visit, marking his first trip to India since the outbreak of the Russia–Ukraine conflict in 2022. The visit will take place at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will coincide with the 23rd India–Russia annual summit.

Indian officials say the leaders are preparing to review defence and energy cooperation, areas that have remained active despite Western pressure on countries to reduce ties with Moscow. India has continued purchasing discounted Russian crude and is moving ahead with long-term defence procurement, including the S-400 air defence system.

Observers note that the meeting comes as India positions itself as a major global actor seeking balanced relations with the West, Russia and emerging economies. For residents in B.C. and Alberta with strong connections to South Asia, the visit is expected to draw attention to how India’s foreign policy decisions could influence global energy markets and regional security.

The summit may also include discussions on a proposed free trade agreement within the India-led Eurasian Economic framework, though no details have been confirmed by either side.