Indian Defence Secretary Admits: “Not Very Optimistic About Putin’s Visit”

New Delhi — India’s top defence official has acknowledged that New Delhi is “not very optimistic” about the upcoming visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Speaking at the National Security Conference, the Indian Defence Secretary said that progress in defence cooperation with Moscow has noticeably slowed down in recent months.

According to official sources, the expected meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin will focus on key defence-related issues, including delays in weapons deliveries, slow progress on existing joint projects, and discussions on potential additional procurement of the S-400 air defence system.

Sources add that although India and Russia have historically enjoyed strong strategic ties, defence cooperation has recently faced challenges, leading to a more cautious outlook in New Delhi ahead of Putin’s visit.