Putin Accepts Modi’s Invite, Backs Strong Anti-Terror Stance

Kremlin Confirms Putin’s Participation in Upcoming India-Russia Annual Summit in New Delhi

In a key reaffirmation of bilateral strategic ties, the Kremlin announced on Monday that Russian President Vladimir Putin has accepted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation to visit India later this year for the annual India-Russia bilateral summit. The confirmation came after a telephonic conversation between the two leaders, during which both sides underscored the resilience and momentum in their diplomatic relationship despite changing global dynamics. According to the Kremlin, President Putin “gratefully accepted” the Indian Prime Minister’s formal invitation for the summit, which will be hosted in New Delhi.

Highlights:

• Putin accepts Modi’s invitation for India visit in 2025.

• Kremlin confirms Putin will attend annual bilateral summit in New Delhi.

• India-Russia ties seen as resilient to external pressures and growing dynamically.

India and Russia Reaffirm Commitment to Uncompromising War on Terror

During the high-level exchange, Prime Minister Modi and President Putin emphasized the need for an “uncompromising fight against terrorism”, affirming that acts of terror must be condemned and countered in all their forms. The statement from Moscow highlighted both leaders’ alignment on global security concerns, particularly in the context of cross-border terrorism. Their remarks come amid heightened tensions in South Asia following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which has led to escalated security discourse in the region. Russia expressed solidarity with India’s anti-terrorism stance and positioned the bilateral relationship as anchored in shared concerns over regional and global stability.

Highlights:

• Modi and Putin call for uncompromising stance against terrorism.

• Discussions take place in wake of Pahalgam terror attack.

• Russia backs India’s counter-terrorism posture amid regional instability.

Russia Urges De-escalation Between India and Pakistan Amid Cross-Border Tensions

Following the Pahalgam attack and heightened military preparedness across the India-Pakistan border, the Kremlin issued a statement urging both nations to pursue de-escalation measures. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Moscow is watching the situation at the border with “great concern,” adding that Russia hopes “the parties will take measures that will reduce tensions.” The Kremlin’s remarks come at a sensitive time, with Pakistan conducting a second missile test since the crisis began. Russia’s call for calm reaffirms its role as a regional power with influence in South Asia, especially as it reiterated willingness to act as a mediator if required. Last week, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov had separately spoken to officials in both India and Pakistan.

Highlights:

• Kremlin calls for de-escalation between India and Pakistan.

• Peskov: Russia watching border tensions with “great concern”.

• Russia reiterates readiness to mediate after Lavrov’s diplomatic outreach.

Strategic Balance Maintained as Russia Reaffirms Ties With Both Delhi and Islamabad

Despite rising regional tensions, the Kremlin reaffirmed its balanced diplomatic stance, labeling India as a strategic partner while also acknowledging close ties with Pakistan. Peskov stated, “India is our strategic partner. Pakistan is also our partner. We value our relations with both Delhi and Islamabad.” This balanced messaging comes in the backdrop of Russia’s longstanding relationship with India—dating back to the Soviet era—which includes critical cooperation in defense, energy, and technology. Russia remains India’s largest arms supplier, underscoring the enduring military and strategic partnership between the two nations even as Moscow engages diplomatically with Islamabad.

Highlights:

• Russia calls India a strategic partner, while maintaining ties with Pakistan.

• Kremlin stresses balanced engagement with both Delhi and Islamabad.

• Moscow remains India’s top arms supplier, reinforcing bilateral defense ties.