The friendship between India and Russia is well-known. Whenever the United States has attempted to exert pressure on India, Russia has steadfastly stood by its friend. India's relations with Ukraine, embroiled in conflict with Russia, remain balanced. The reason is clear: India has consistently maintained a stance of neutrality. Towards the end of this year, Russian President Putin is set to visit India. Concurrently, Ukraine's ambassador to India has indicated that President Zelensky is also expected to visit.
PM Modi Invites Zelensky to Visit India
A new dimension of India-Ukraine relations was witnessed recently, as Delhi's Qutub Minar gleamed in the hues of the Ukrainian flag on the eve of Ukraine's Independence Day. Ambassador Oleksandr Polischuk stated that work is swiftly progressing toward a future strategic partnership between India and Ukraine.
He shared that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended an invitation to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky to visit India, and both parties are currently coordinating the dates. The ambassador emphasized that Zelensky's visit would be a significant milestone for relations between the two countries.
Putin's Visit Scheduled by Year-End
Anticipation is rising for Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval confirmed weeks ago that Putin will arrive by the end of this year. Russian news agency Interfax revised its report, stating that Putin's visit will occur by the end of 2025.
Putin's visit coincides with a period of tension as U.S. President Donald Trump expressed discontent over Russia buying oil and increased tariffs on India by 50%. India described Trump's move as 'irrational'. The Ministry of External Affairs called the decision unjust, unwarranted, and irrational.
'India Stands Firm'
Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar asserted on Saturday that India will not back down from its terms during potential trade agreement discussions with the United States. He made it clear that the government will protect the interests of farmers and small producers, ensuring no agreement comes at their expense.
During an event, Jaishankar highlighted three major challenges in India-U.S. relations: trade and tariff disputes, crude oil purchasing from Russia, and Washington's interference on issues related to Pakistan.
'A President Like Never Before'
He remarked that President Donald Trump’s foreign policy approach is distinct from previous American presidents. According to Jaishankar, 'The world has never seen a U.S. President conducting foreign policy so openly and publicly. This change is impacting not just India but the entire world.'
