On August 7, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval at the Kremlin in Moscow, marking a high-level reaffirmation of the “strategic partnership” between the two nations. According to Russia’s state-run RIA news agency, while specific details of their discussions were not disclosed, both sides emphasized the depth of their bilateral security ties.

The timing of the meeting—coming just a day after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a sweeping increase in tariffs on Indian goods, partly as a consequence of India’s continued purchases of Russian oil—highlights its geopolitical significance.

NSA Doval also confirmed that President Putin is planning an official visit to India, likely before the end of 2025, reinforcing the momentum in bilateral engagements .