India-Russia Relations in Focus as PM Modi and Putin Discuss Ukraine Over Phone

On 6 August 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The call, which took place amid continued international concern over the Ukraine conflict, reaffirmed the enduring strategic partnership between India and Russia. ...

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On 6 August 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The call, which took place amid continued international concern over the Ukraine conflict, reaffirmed the enduring strategic partnership between India and Russia.

PM Modi Holds Phone Conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin

During the discussion, PM Modi expressed appreciation for President Putin’s updates on the Ukraine crisis and reiterated India’s consistent position in favor of dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful resolution. He also extended an invitation to President Putin to visit India later this year for the annual India-Russia bilateral summit.

Summary of PM Modi’s Call with President Putin

PM Modi Holds Phone Conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin
Key Details
Information
Call Participants
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin
Date of Call
6 August 2025
Key Topics Discussed
Ukraine conflict, India-Russia strategic partnership
Invitation Extended
PM Modi invited Putin to visit India for annual bilateral summit
Focus Areas
Peace efforts, economic collaboration, global stability
India’s Official Position
Advocacy for dialogue and diplomacy over military conflict
Upcoming Engagements
Annual India-Russia Bilateral Summit in India (date to be confirmed)
Official Source

India’s Position on the Ukraine Conflict

India has maintained a neutral yet principled stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict since its inception in early 2022. Consistently calling for peaceful dialogue and cessation of hostilities, New Delhi has resisted external pressures to take sides while actively engaging both Ukrainian and Russian leaderships.

Modi’s Emphasis on Diplomacy

In his phone call, Prime Minister Modi highlighted:

  • The importance of respecting international law and sovereignty
  • The urgent need to de-escalate violence
  • The value of inclusive dialogue in restoring peace and stability

Modi’s conversation with Putin follows similar communications he has had with global leaders, underscoring India’s role as a neutral bridge-builder in international diplomacy.

Bilateral Relations Between India and Russia: A Longstanding Strategic Partnership

India and Russia share a multi-dimensional relationship spanning defense, energy, trade, and science. The two countries have maintained robust ties since the Cold War era, and their annual India-Russia Bilateral Summits, initiated in 2000, serve as a cornerstone of diplomatic engagement.

Key Pillars of India-Russia Partnership

  • Defense Cooperation: Russia remains one of India’s top suppliers of defense equipment, including aircraft, submarines, and missile systems.
  • Energy Collaboration: India imports oil and gas from Russia and has invested in Russian energy fields.
  • Space and Nuclear Cooperation: Joint projects under the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Roscosmos have expanded significantly.
  • Trade Expansion: The countries are targeting USD 50 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.

Putin’s Invitation to Visit India: Strategic Summit on the Horizon

During the phone call, Prime Minister Modi extended a formal invitation to President Putin to visit India later in 2025 for the annual India-Russia Bilateral Summit. The summit is expected to:

  • Review ongoing bilateral projects
  • Strengthen cooperation in emerging sectors like semiconductors, cyber security, and green energy
  • Address regional security challenges, especially the implications of the Ukraine crisis on Asia

The date and location of the summit are expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, pending diplomatic coordination between the two nations.

Impact of the Conversation on Global and Regional Affairs

The phone conversation between PM Modi and President Putin is significant in both symbolic and practical terms. It reaffirms India’s commitment to balanced diplomacy, especially in a multipolar world where geopolitical alliances are shifting.

Potential Outcomes

  • Boost in bilateral engagements despite global instability
  • Greater Indian mediation or backchannel diplomacy in the Ukraine conflict
  • Continued energy and defense cooperation, insulating India from global supply shocks

India’s ongoing role as a member of BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), and the G20 positions it as a critical voice in global peacebuilding discussions.

India’s Balanced Foreign Policy Approach

India’s foreign policy has been marked by strategic autonomy, allowing it to engage major powers like the United States, Russia, and China independently. Modi’s outreach to President Putin is part of a broader effort to ensure:

  • National security and economic interests
  • Peaceful neighborhood and stable global order
  • Active participation in peace negotiations and humanitarian efforts

India has also sent humanitarian aid to both Ukraine and other affected regions, further strengthening its image as a responsible global stakeholder.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. When did PM Modi speak with President Putin?

Ans. The conversation took place on 6 August 2025 via telephone.

Q2. What topics were discussed in the call?

Ans. Key topics included the ongoing Ukraine conflict, strategic bilateral relations, and the upcoming India-Russia Summit.

Q3. What is India’s position on the Russia-Ukraine war?

Ans. India has consistently advocated for peaceful dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for sovereignty, without aligning explicitly with either party.

Q4. Has President Putin been invited to India?

Ans. Yes, PM Modi invited President Putin to visit India for the 2025 Annual India-Russia Bilateral Summit.

Q5. Where can I find official updates on this matter?

Ans. Official statements and updates are available on the Ministry of External Affairs website: https://www.mea.gov.in

Conclusion: Diplomacy Amid Complexity

The recent phone conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin reinforces the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement in a rapidly changing global environment. As tensions persist over the Ukraine conflict, India continues to position itself as a voice of reason and balance, advocating for peace through dialogue rather than confrontation.

By extending an invitation to President Putin for the 2025 India-Russia Annual Bilateral Summit, PM Modi has underlined the resilience of India-Russia relations and the shared commitment to strategic, economic, and regional cooperation. The call also signals India’s readiness to play a constructive role in global affairs, while protecting its national interests and promoting international stability.

As the world watches how major powers navigate conflict and cooperation, India’s approach—rooted in non-alignment, peace advocacy, and mutual respect—offers a measured path forward in these turbulent times.

Official Government Source

For the official press release and future updates, please visit:
https://www.mea.gov.in

For More Information Click HERE

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