Russian president to visit India as Moscow, New Delhi plan key diplomatic trip

Russian President Vladimir Putin is preparing for a visit to India, with Moscow and New Delhi already coordinating the details of the trip.

Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, confirmed the upcoming visit but did not provide specific dates, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

Peskov expressed hope that the exact dates of Putin's visit would be determined soon. He noted that the visit comes after a series of reciprocal trips between the two nations’ leaders, including two visits by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russia.

"Of course, after Prime Minister Modi's two visits to Russia, now we have President Putin's visit to India looming, so we are looking forward to it," Peskov said.

While specifics on the timing of the visit remain unclear, Peskov emphasized the importance of the trip, describing it as an event of great significance for bilateral relations between Russia and India. Preparations for the visit are already underway, the Kremlin spokesman noted.

This visit follows a busy diplomatic exchange between the two countries. In July, Prime Minister Modi made a two-day visit to Moscow for the 22nd India-Russia summit, and in October, he attended the BRICS summit in Kazan.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov accused the United States of exerting undue pressure on India, particularly its government and financial institutions, by attempting to dictate terms and influence decision-making.

Peskov stated that Russia is fully aware of the "unprecedented pressure" India is facing from Washington.

"The United States is trying to dictate to Indian banks what they should do and what they should not do," Peskov remarked. "Isn't this an attempt to introduce a new colonial system?" he asked, suggesting that such actions were an overreach into India's sovereignty.

Peskov further emphasized that Russia, alongside its Indian partners, would explore ways to overcome this pressure, which he characterized as "illegitimate." Despite the external challenges, Peskov expressed confidence in the strong and respectful relationship between Russia and India, underscoring that India values its cooperation with Russia.

"We have no doubt that India respects Russia, and India values cooperation with Russia. But at the same time, we also understand very well that India is a sovereign country," Peskov said, affirming Russia's commitment to supporting India in maintaining its autonomy in the face of foreign influence.

By Vafa Guliyeva