Setting
- The interview was filmed inside the historic Ekaterina (Catherine) Hall of the Kremlin in Moscow.
- Conducted by Anjana Om Kashyap and Geeta Mohan of the India Today Group.
- Aired on India Today and Aaj Tak on December 3, 2025, just hours before Putin’s arrival in New Delhi.
Key Themes in Putin’s Remarks
1. India–Russia Strategic Partnership
- Putin reaffirmed that India remains a “special and privileged strategic partner” for Russia.
- He emphasized the long-standing trust between the two nations, particularly in defence and energy cooperation.
- He noted that despite global turbulence, the partnership has remained steady and resilient.
2. Defence & Security Cooperation
- Putin highlighted ongoing projects like the S‑400 air defence systems and potential collaboration on next-generation fighter jets.
- He stressed that Russia is committed to technology transfer and joint production, not just arms sales.
- He linked the upcoming RELOS agreement ratification to deeper military interoperability.
3. Energy & Trade
- Putin underscored Russia’s role as a reliable energy supplier to India, especially in oil and gas.
- He discussed mechanisms like rupee–ruble trade settlements to bypass Western sanctions.
- He expressed optimism about expanding cooperation in nuclear energy and small modular reactors.
4. Global Geopolitics
- Putin commented on the United States and Western sanctions, framing Russia’s partnership with India as a counterbalance.
- He praised India’s independent foreign policy, noting that New Delhi does not succumb to external pressure.
- He also touched on the Ukraine conflict, reiterating Russia’s stance while appreciating India’s calls for dialogue and peace.
5. Expectations from the Visit
- Putin said he looked forward to “frank and friendly discussions” with PM Modi.
- He emphasized that the summit would focus on defence, energy, trade, and mobility agreements.
- Putin said he was confident the trip would mark the beginning of new chapters in bilateral ties.
Editorial Note
Putin’s interview ahead of his India visit was not just symbolic—it was a strategic message to both domestic and international audiences. By choosing an Indian media outlet for his first such interview in nearly 20 years, he underscored the importance of India in Russia’s global calculus. His remarks set the stage for the 23rd Annual India–Russia Summit, highlighting defence, energy, and geopolitical alignment as the pillars of the partnership.