Ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to India, the Russian parliament has approved a significant military logistics agreement with New Delhi, marking a major step forward in bilateral defence cooperation. The Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support Agreement (RELOS) will allow the armed forces of both nations to access each other’s bases, ports, and airfields for refuelling, repair, and replenishment during deployments, exercises, and humanitarian missions. Originally signed in February 2025, the pact strengthens operational coordination and enhances the ability of both countries to conduct joint military activities with greater efficiency. For India, the agreement boosts the Navy and Air Force’s operational reach, especially in the Indian Ocean Region, while offering Russia strategic access to critical Indian facilities. The timing of the ratification underscores the importance Moscow places on its relationship with New Delhi, particularly as Putin prepares for high-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The summit is expected to deepen cooperation across defence, energy, and trade, while addressing concerns such as the growing trade imbalance between the two countries. Overall, the logistics pact reflects a renewed commitment to long-term strategic partnership amid a rapidly changing global geopolitical landscape.
Ahead of Vladimir Putin’s visit, Russian parliament clears major military logistics pact with India
This will be Vladimir Putin’s first visit to India since the start of the invasion of Ukraine.