NEW DELHI — Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India in December, the Kremlin said Wednesday, following a phone call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The call coincided with Modi’s 75th birthday. “Thank you, my friend President Putin, for the phone call and warm wishes on my 75th birthday,” Modi wrote on X.
During the conversation, Modi referred to Russia’s war in Ukraine as “a conflict” and reiterated India’s desire to contribute to a peaceful resolution. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening the “special and strategic partnership” between India and Russia.
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said Wednesday that India’s close ties with Russia pose a challenge to the EU’s efforts to deepen cooperation with New Delhi.
Putin and Modi last met on Sept. 1 in China.