New Delhi, Dec 4 (NationPress) Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to kick off his visit to India on Thursday, starting with an informal gathering with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence. Former diplomats have characterized this visit as profoundly significant, labeling it as one of the most crucial diplomatic interactions India has experienced in recent years.

In a conversation with IANS, former diplomat Veena Sikri stated, “This visit is remarkably important, possibly one of the most consequential for India in a long time. It arises from an intricate mix of global and strategic factors. The present geopolitical climate is exceedingly unstable, marked by two major conflicts -- the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war and the Gaza-Israel conflict, both of which are unresolved. Moreover, India is facing significant pressure from the United States regarding high tariffs, including an additional 25 percent tariff, much of which is tied to India's energy imports from Russia. These topics are likely to be central to discussions.”

She further emphasized that defense cooperation would also be a focal point.

“The Russian-designed Sukhoi-57 stealth fighter jet holds great importance, and I am confident that the Indian government is actively assessing it. A core aspect of the discussions between President Putin and Prime Minister Modi will be exploring possible paths towards peace in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Notably, we have also seen US President Donald Trump's 28-point peace plan,” Sikri remarked.

Former diplomat Anil Trigunayat shared similar sentiments.

“I extend a warm welcome to President Putin in India. Over the past 25 years, since Putin took the helm, India-Russia relations have significantly strengthened. His visit is highly significant. They will deliberate on the Ukraine-Russia war and the prospects for its resolution,” he stated.

Trigunayat pointed out the strong personal bond between PM Modi and Putin.

“There exists a profound friendship and mutual understanding between President Putin and India. International attention is always drawn when India and Russia engage, given that Russia is a major global power and India is emerging as a robust economic nation. Regardless of external perspectives, the relationship has continued to flourish,” he added.

He also highlighted that Russia has been instrumental in India's industrialization and remains a vital partner. “As global dynamics shift, new avenues for collaboration will surface. Communication and strategic comprehension have both grown stronger. Following this visit, B2B cooperation and economic engagement between the two nations are expected to expand further,” Trigunayat remarked.

Meanwhile, the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, set for Friday, occurs at a time when the US has imposed punitive sanctions on New Delhi, and will focus on bolstering defense cooperation, alongside discussions on trade and energy partnerships.

This will be Putin's first visit to India since the Ukraine invasion. On Friday, he will receive a ceremonial welcome before formal discussions commence.

Preparations for this high-profile visit in New Delhi have intensified, with authorities enhancing security and logistical measures to ensure a smooth and secure stay for the Russian President.

In anticipation of the summit, a comprehensive five-layer security structure has been established.

This arrangement includes elite National Security Guard (NSG) commandos, snipers positioned along likely travel routes, drone surveillance, jammers to disrupt unauthorized signals, and AI-driven monitoring systems for constant oversight.

Advanced facial recognition cameras have also been installed to guarantee continuous monitoring of key areas.

Over 40 senior Russian security personnel have arrived in the national capital and are working closely with the NSG and Delhi Police to monitor the presidential convoy in real-time and neutralize any potential threats.

The multilayered security detail is strategically organized, with outer rings managed by NSG teams and Delhi Police, while Russia's Presidential Security Service will oversee the inner layers.

During engagements involving Prime Minister Modi, commandos from the Special Protection Group (SPG) will join the core security team.

All venues associated with the visit, including the hotel where Putin will reside and additional locations that may be incorporated into the itinerary, are undergoing thorough inspections and security measures. Authorities are implementing extensive precautions to ensure no safety lapse.