The visuals of Russian President Vladimir Putin in India have drawn considerable global attention. In parts of Europe and the wider Western world, the visit has been met with mixed reactions ranging from curiosity to disappointment. Some Ukrainian groups and Western commentators expressed strong criticism of India, reflecting limited understanding of India’s historical relationship with Russia and its foreign policy traditions.
Russia—and earlier the Soviet Union—has played a longstanding role in India’s diplomatic, strategic and developmental journey since independence. Several Indian freedom fighters operated from Moscow while facing persecution by the British colonial administration. For many in India, Russia has historically represented support during critical junctures rather than merely a transactional partner.
India–Russia engagement deepened under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who saw scientific thinking and elements of socialist policy as pathways to national development. Many national leaders, including Subhas Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, Periyar, and B. R. Ambedkar, were influenced in varying degrees by the Russian revolutionary and developmental model, though often with reservations about aspects of its governance structure. Relations further strengthened during Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s tenure, visible in cooperation during the Bangladesh liberation movement, nationalisation policies, and an emphasis on the public sector.
The global and domestic political landscape began to shift in the 1980s, particularly during Rajiv Gandhi’s term, when India expanded engagement with the United States and Western economies. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, many Indian commentators perceived Russia as weakened, a perception reinforced by Western media. However, Russia gradually rebuilt its economy and military capability and continues to hold significant natural resources, nuclear capacity and strategic influence.
The Russia–Ukraine conflict has further exposed deep geopolitical divides. Western political rhetoric toward Russia has often been confrontational, and expectations of rapid Russian economic collapse have not materialised. Several European economies faced internal downturns while Russia maintained stability and strengthened aspects of its global position.
For India, maintaining balanced relations is essential. The rise of multipolarity—marked by the increasing roles of China, India, Brazil, African and Latin American countries—suggests a declining relevance of the older unipolar power structure dominated by the West. A constructive relationship between Russia and Europe would contribute to global stability, but continued conflict in Ukraine risks prolonging instability.
Indian media also has a responsibility to move beyond sensationalised or personality-focused coverage and engage with geopolitics and diplomacy with depth and seriousness. Interviews with global leaders require preparation and context rather than casual questioning.
Vladimir Putin has restored Russia’s prominence on the world stage and remains a significant figure in shaping the emerging multipolar world order. India must continue to pursue an independent foreign policy based on national interest, including partnerships that support its long-term strategic goals. A strong and pragmatic India–Russia relationship, grounded in mutual respect and realistic assessment rather than sentiment, can serve both nations well.
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*Human rights defender
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