Modi’s Moscow Mission: Bridging Diplomatic Divides

India and Russia are contemplating Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s potential visit to Moscow in early July, marking his first trip since 2019 and amidst Russia’s Ukraine invasion. Though not officially confirmed, sources in New Delhi and Moscow suggest Modi could undertake a brief day-long visit around July 8. Yuri Ushakov from the Russian presidency confirmed active preparations for the visit, emphasizing its certainty pending final date announcements.

The visit, categorized as official rather than ceremonial, aims at substantive discussions and meetings, skipping the advance liaison team phase typically preceding such trips. Modi last met Putin at the SCO Summit in 2022, urging dialogue amidst the Ukraine crisis. Since then, they’ve maintained phone contact, Putin recently congratulating Modi on his electoral success, highlighting India’s international stature.

Modi’s decision to skip the SCO Summit in Kazakhstan aligns with Parliament’s session and strained Sino-Indian ties. The Moscow visit underscores India’s strategic autonomy amidst deepening US ties despite non-condemnation of Russia’s actions. India advocates dialogue to resolve Ukraine’s crisis and stabilize oil prices with increased Russian crude imports.

The visit intends to signal continuity in India’s diplomatic stance, maintaining strategic autonomy amid global geopolitical shifts.