Vladimir Putin has shown strong backing for the Indian government and agreed to visit the country during a Monday call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
During their conversation, Putin expressed his support for India following the tragic terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir late last month. Modi took the opportunity to congratulate Putin on the 80th anniversary of World War II’s conclusion. The Russian government maintains its significant role in the defeat of Nazi Germany, hosting various events and parades to commemorate this, while downplaying America’s contribution in celebrating the former “Soviet Federation.”
Putin and Modi’s discussion comes at a pivotal moment for both nations, particularly regarding their relationship with the US. Currently, Russia is involved in diplomatic efforts under President Donald Trump to address the ongoing situation in Ukraine.
Recently, Trump and his administration expressed frustration over the need to initiate a new bombing campaign in Ukraine’s civilian areas, proclaiming their eagerness for the Kremlin to end the conflict, while also announcing a “ceasefire” that came alongside further military actions.
India is renegotiating its trade relationships with the US, especially after new tariffs were imposed on all American trade partners. Initially, India experienced a significant increase in tariffs, but the White House paused them in response to India’s willingness to negotiate a favorable agreement. Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal described the renegotiation as a “lifetime opportunity,” even as he faced severe tariff obstacles, especially in light of competition with China.
Moreover, Putin and Modi are both members of BRICS, an economic and security alliance that often stands against American influence. Recently, the BRICS Foreign Ministers Summit in Brazil saw some inconsistencies and no joint statements issued. Some observers pointed out the lack of unity, particularly as many BRICS nations confront the challenges posed by the tariffs from Trump.
India’s Foreign Ministry reported that Putin had “strongly condemned” the terrorist attacks in India’s Pahargam and conveyed his “full support” for the nation.
According to the Indian government, Modi extended an invitation to Putin to attend the annual summit in India, which Putin accepted. It’s worth noting that Putin’s upcoming trip is complicated by a warrant for his arrest issued by the International Criminal Court concerning war crimes in Ukraine, but since India is not a member of the ICC, it isn’t obligated to act on this warrant.
In a related note, the Kremlin stated that Modi wouldn’t attend the World War II victory celebrations in Russia, but diplomats from India would. It’s expected that Chinese leader Xi Jinping will attend the latter part of the week with Putin for related events.
Despite ongoing tensions, India has not imposed sanctions on Russia and continues to maintain friendly ties with the US and Ukraine allies, although it has halted oil purchases in response to the conflict. Modi visited Ukraine last August and had a rather tense conversation with President Voldymir Zelensky.
President Trump has been attempting to negotiate a resolution to the war since the beginning of his second term, and while his meetings with Zelensky have yielded mixed outcomes, Trump described a recent gathering in Vatican City positively.
He commented on the challenges ahead for Ukraine and praised Zelensky’s commitment to his country. However, Trump expressed disappointment with Russia’s position in the ongoing conflict, urging Putin to stop the hostilities and finalize a peace agreement.
Additionally, Trump recently accused Putin of continuing missile strikes in civilian areas, which he believes may indicate a reluctance to end the conflict. He warned that further sanctions could be on the table if the situation continues.
General Keith Kellogg, Trump’s envoy to Ukraine, stated that Russia is the real obstacle to peace, pointing out that Putin seems to be waiting for Western fatigue to settle in while avoiding any decisive actions toward resolution.
Last week, Putin announced yet another “ceasefire” from May 8th to 10th to mark the World War II anniversary. Critics question the sincerity of such delays, suggesting that genuine actions are required to prove goodwill from all parties involved, particularly Russia.
