Ajit Doval meets Vladimir Putin

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, just a day after U.S. President Donald Trump announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian exports. This move, linked to New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian crude oil, has raised the total tariff rate to 50%.

The Kremlin released footage of Putin greeting Doval with a handshake, but did not disclose any specifics of their conversation.

Doval had arrived in Moscow on Tuesday to discuss matters concerning the India–Russia strategic partnership, as well as defence and security cooperation. His visit comes amid ongoing warnings from the Trump administration to nations maintaining close ties with Moscow, including India.

During the meeting, Doval also confirmed that President Putin is scheduled to visit India before the end of 2025. “We are very pleased to hear about President Putin’s upcoming visit to India. The dates are nearly finalised,” he stated. “As you have rightly pointed out, our relationship is both longstanding and special. We place great value on our strategic partnership, and our high-level exchanges have significantly strengthened it.”