What happened?
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is scheduled to visit Moscow from August 20 to 21 to hold wide-ranging talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. This visit follows National Security Adviser Ajit Doval’s recent trip to Russia and is part of efforts to lay the groundwork for the upcoming annual India–Russia summit, during which President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India for talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Russian Foreign Ministry has confirmed the meeting, stating it will cover major bilateral issues. Jaishankar is also expected to co-chair the 26th session of the India–Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific-Technological and Cultural Cooperation, with Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov leading the Russian delegation. A meeting with President Putin is also likely.
Why it matters to India
Jaishankar’s visit reflects India’s continued commitment to a time-tested strategic partnership with Russia. As global geopolitical shifts reshape international alignments, India is engaging with key partners to ensure its national interests — particularly in energy, defence, and economic cooperation — remain secure. Energy remains a vital pillar of the bilateral relationship. Russia has emerged as a major supplier of crude oil to India, supporting the country’s energy security amid global market fluctuations. Defence collaboration will be another priority, given the longstanding military-technical cooperation between the two nations. The visit also sets the stage for the upcoming PM Modi – President Putin summit, underlining the importance both countries place on sustained high-level dialogue and cooperation across global forums.