Modi-Putin talks focus on defence, trade ahead of BRICS Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin began bilateral talks in New Delhi on September 11, their second meeting in two weeks, on the eve of the 18th BRICS Summit. The discussions cover defence, trade, energy, and regional security.

Defence cooperation remains central, with the delayed $5.43 billion S-400 air-defence contract, Su-57 fighter technology transfer, and BrahMos missile production on the agenda. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated that Russia will fulfil its S-400 commitments despite Ukraine-war disruptions.

“Russia is capable of fulfilling its obligations, and they will be fulfilled”

Economic talks target cross-border payment mechanisms, greater use of national currencies, and cooperation in civil nuclear energy, fertilisers, critical minerals, manufacturing, railways, and steel. Russia supplied a record 51 per cent of India's crude imports in July 2026, though the share moderated in August as Chinese purchases rose.

At their August 31 meeting in Bishkek, Modi told Putin the Ukraine war must end for humanity's sake and pledged support for all peace efforts. India has resisted Western pressure to cut energy ties, citing the need for secure, affordable supplies.

The BRICS Summit starting September 12 will include Chinese President Xi Jinping and Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian. A Modi-Xi meeting is expected to further stabilise border management and reduce geopolitical friction.

Putin was received at Delhi airport by Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the relationship as a "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership" anchored in multifaceted, longstanding ties.