Oil, Security and Global Strategy: Why Putin Is Heading to Delhi for Talks with Modi
Russian President Vladimir Putin has begun a two-day trip to India, where he will sit down with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and take part in the two countries’ annual leadership summit. During the visit, Delhi and Moscow are expected to ink several agreements. The timing is noteworthy: it comes after months of pressure from Washington urging India to scale back its purchases of Russian crude. It also coincides with the Trump administration’s ongoing diplomatic efforts with both Russia and Ukraine to bring the conflict to an end. India and Russia have enjoyed a close partnership for generations, and the personal rapport between Modi and Putin has further strengthened that bond. Here’s why both sides need each other—and what developments are worth paying attention to. A long-standing partnership shaped by trade, energy and global politics Why does the Kremlin value its relationship with India? For Moscow, India represents a vital market. Consider the basics: A population neari...