Amid standoff with US, Modi speaks to Putin, says he’ll host him this year | India News

Following NSA Ajit Doval’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, PM Narendra Modi spoke to Putin Friday, reiterating his invitation to the president for the annual India-Russia summit and underlining India’s consistent position for peaceful resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.Doval had said on Thursday that the date for Putin’s visit, which has been on the cards since late last year, has been almost finalised. Modi’s conversation with Putin took place amid India’s trade strife with the US that has seen President Donald Trump imposing an additional 25 percent tariff on India for its energy imports from Russia, even though China continues to purchase more from Moscow.According to an Indian readout, Putin briefed Modi about the latest developments related to the war with Ukraine.“While thanking President Putin for his detailed assessment, Prime Minister reiterated India’s consistent position for peaceful resolution of the conflict,” said the Indian statement. Putin is likely to meet Trump soon as the latter work to broker a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. It’s in India’s interest that the war stop soon as that would render untenable Trump’s secondary sanctions against India.“The two leaders also reviewed progress in the bilateral agenda, and reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia,” said the Indian government, adding Modi invited Putin to India later this year for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.“Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine. We also reviewed the progress in our bilateral agenda, and reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. I look forward to hosting President Putin in India later this year,” said Modi in a post on X.