Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm reception of Russian President Vladimir Putin signals India’s intention to maintain its strategic autonomy amid growing Western pressure regarding the Ukraine conflict. During Putin’s visit, India and Russia signed agreements on various sectors including energy, trade, and health, while Modi announced progress on a free-trade pact with the Eurasian Economic Union. Despite Western criticism and calls for India to take a firmer stance against Russia, analysts note India’s approach reflects a careful balancing act between its longstanding defense and energy partnership with Moscow and its economic ties with the US and EU. This visit underscores the need for India to reinforce its relationships with major powers during a period of significant geopolitical realignment.