Claim
Social media posts claim that Vladimir Putin’s visit to India proves New Delhi has officially shifted its position on the Ukraine war and is now openly supporting Russia.
Verdict
False. India has not changed its official position on the Ukraine conflict.
What Fact Check India Found?
1. What triggered the viral claim?
Following the announcement of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s 30-hour visit to India, several posts online alleged that the trip marked a major diplomatic realignment, suggesting India had “chosen Russia” in the Ukraine conflict.
The posts also claim India “ignored US pressure” and “endorsed Russia’s actions.”
2.What is India’s official position on the Ukraine war
India’s stance has remained consistent since 2022:
- India calls for dialogue and diplomacy.
- India does not support the invasion nor vote entirely in Russia’s favor at the UN.
- India maintains strategic autonomy, engaging with both the West and Russia.
- India continues its partnerships with the US, EU, Japan, and others.
There has been no official statement by the Indian government indicating a shift toward endorsing the war.
3. Why did Putin visit India?
Putin’s trip is part of the annual India-Russia leadership summit, which was paused during the pandemic and geopolitical tensions.
The visit focused on:
- Defence discussions (S-400 systems, Su-57 fighters)
- Bilateral trade, especially after the Russian oil sanctions
- Cooperation in energy, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and machinery
- Labour mobility agreements
- Commemorating 25 years of strategic partnership
None of the official agenda items referenced Ukraine policy changes.
4. What US–India tensions: A separate issue
Social media claims link India’s Russia outreach to the ongoing US-India trade tensions, including recent tariffs by President Trump.
However:
- These tariffs relate to trade and oil imports, not Ukraine diplomacy.
- India continues to deepen defence and technology ties with the US.
India’s foreign policy still reflects a careful balance between the West and Russia.
Factcheck India Conclusion
The claim that India has shifted its position on the Ukraine war due to Putin’s visit is false. The visit is part of a long-running bilateral framework and reflects India’s layered, independent foreign policy not a geopolitical endorsement of Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The visit is part of the long-standing annual India–Russia Summit and focuses on trade, defence, and bilateral cooperation, not on altering India’s Ukraine policy.