Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began a two-day visit to Russia on July 9, 2024, marking his first trip since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The visit comes amidst growing tensions between India and Russia due to New Delhi's stance on the conflict and its increasing ties with Western powers.
Modi's agenda includes a meeting with President Vladimir Putin, whom he last saw in person at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Uzbekistan in 2022. The two leaders are expected to discuss various topics, including trade development, defense supplies, and military logistics agreement.
India has maintained its neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict and has abstained from explicit condemnation of Russia at the United Nations. However, New Delhi's imports of Russian crude have surged since the invasion, rising from $2.5 billion in 2021 to $46.5 billion in 2023.
During his visit, Modi is also expected to open consulates in Kazan and Yekaterinburg to enhance ties between the two nations. Discussions are underway for India to import more Russian oil and nuclear fuel for its power plants.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized Modi's visit as a 'huge disappointment and a devastating blow to peace efforts.' On the same day, Russian forces attacked a children's hospital in Kyiv, killing and injuring several people.
Modi's visit to Russia is significant as it comes at a time when India is drifting closer to rival camps. The United States has been wooing India with diplomatic overtures and military cooperation, while China continues to be a major trading partner for Moscow.
Despite the tensions, Modi reiterated his commitment to maintaining strong ties with Russia during his visit. He is expected to return from Russia on July 10 and embark on a historic trip to Austria.